Petition Leaving Care age to be raised to the August after 18th birthday if in education

Care leavers aged 18 in full time education should be classed as 'eligible' or 'relevant' until the 31st August after their 18th Birthday, to be entitled to accommodation and maintenance. This ceases at 18, when they become 'former relevant'. It is unfair to have to study whilst setting up a home.

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The percentage of care leavers in further and higher education is statistically lower than their peers. Being able to manage and complete their education may prove to be a struggle when leaving care.
In terms of child benefit entitlement, a ‘qualifying young person’ can be aged 18 and 19 in full-time education. This extends financial support to young people post-18. Care leavers should have their support extended to the same age as they are some of the most vulnerable people in society.

This petition closed early because of a General Election Find out more on the Petitions Committee website

10 signatures

Progress of the petition towards its next target: 10 of 10,000 signatures required to get a government response

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10,000 signatures required to get a government response

Date closed 3 May 2017
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