In England alone 87,170 children are growing up in care, this is likely because of abuse or neglect or because the child’s parent is unable to keep them safe. Through no fault of their own, many young people will have lived in more than 20 different foster placements and children’s homes by the time they leave care. Many young people come through the care system and flourish however far too many do not get the stability, love and support they need to heal and thrive.

Young people leave care between the age of 16-18 and lose almost all of their support after they age out of the system. Can you remember how many times you came back home for help and support through a tough time? Somewhere to stay when the boiler broke. Money to help with car repairs. Someone to guide you in becoming a parent yourself. There are so many things we take for granted from our families…

According to the National Audit Office, one-third of care leavers become homeless in the first two years immediately after they leave care.

A recent study from the University of Bedfordshire estimated care experienced young people are seven times more likely to be imprisoned than their peers.

The Nuffield Foundation found care experienced young people are over ten times more likely than their peers to be not in education, employment or training.

The work of charities such as Pure Insight who provide support & mentorship programmes for care experienced young people is incredibly important. Pure Insight’s work across Greater Manchester enables young people to develop the skills, resilience and confidence to overcome personal & societal barriers and realise their full potential. 

In April will be running the Manchester Marathon to raise money for Pure Insight. As someone who only occasionally ran Park Run if the weather was nice, I know training to run this distance will be tough. I would be incredibly grateful if you could support my efforts with a small financial donation to the cause.