Young people who grow up in the care system face enormous challenges when they leave care — usually at the age of 18. Without the family support that most young adults rely on, many care leavers struggle to maintain housing and can quickly find themselves homeless. At Seaside CIC, we work with care leavers in Brighton and are committed to ensuring that no young person leaves care without somewhere safe to call home.
Who Are Care Leavers?
Care leavers are young people who have spent time in the local authority care system — in foster care, residential children’s homes, or other care placements. When they reach adulthood (usually 18, though some support extends to 25), they “leave care” and must begin to live independently.
Why Are Care Leavers at Risk of Homelessness?
Care leavers are significantly more likely to experience homelessness than their peers. They leave care without the family safety net that most young people rely on — no parents to move back to in a crisis, no family to help with deposits or furniture, and no established support network. Many have experienced trauma, instability, and multiple placement moves during their childhood, which can affect their ability to manage independent living.
What Support Is Available?
Local authorities have a legal duty to support care leavers until the age of 25 — but the quality and extent of this support varies enormously. Personal advisers, staying put arrangements, and leaving care grants are available in Brighton and Hove. Organisations like Seaside CIC also provide supported accommodation and wrap-around support for care leavers with complex needs.
If you are a care leaver in Brighton who is homeless or at risk, or if you work with care leavers, please contact Seaside CIC. We are here to help.
