Pledge to care experienced young people launches in East Riding; Their Voice, Our Commitment

East Riding of Yorkshire Council, along with partner organisations and care experienced young people, have launched a Pledge to all children and young people in care, and care leavers, during National Care Leavers month.

The Pledge was unveiled at Full Council on Wednesday 12 November, and councillors signed a large-scale version to demonstrate their commitment.

The Pledge outlines the meaningful support young people would like – including help around life choices, housing, education, employment, finances, health, wellbeing, and rights. It was written by East Riding’s Children in Care Council and Care Leavers Forum.

Councillor Victoria Aitken, cabinet member for children, families and education said: “The Pledge is the voice of our young people, and the commitment of senior leaders to ensure that all children and young people in care receive the best possible support and opportunities to enable them to thrive.”

The Pledge has been signed by the council, health services, education, police and social care.

Watch the video:

To further support the commitment, the council is introducing:

• New Corporate Parenting e-learning as part of the training for all staff
• The Next Chapter Hub – a new safe, welcoming space for care experienced young people to get advice, support and build connections
• A new app for care leavers to access information and support easily
• Light Up – Bridlington Spa will join other landmarks across the country, by turning blue for the National Light Up day on 24 November, to celebrate the care experienced community

Find out more about support available to care leavers: eryc.link/leavingcare