CPCA has signed up to The Care Leaver Covenant which is a voluntary scheme that supports care leavers aged 16 to 25, who leave care after their 16th birthday. By joining the Care Leavers Covenant, we’re taking a step towards a more equitable future, where every young person has access to opportunities and resources that help them reach their full potential.
What is the Care Leavers Covenant?
The Care Leavers Covenant is an initiative that focuses on creating better opportunities and support for young people who have experienced time in the care system. It aims to ensure that care leavers have the same life chances as their peers and that they receive the support they need to thrive in adulthood. We’re proud to stand by this cause and play our part in this vital mission.
What does that mean for the Combined Authority?
As a Combined Authority, we are committed to:
- providing a Care Leavers Bursary for Care Leavers aged 19-22, who are resident in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough and enrolled on a course funded by us.
- Independent and impartial careers advice and guidance through the National Careers Service.
- Provide work experience and apprenticeship opportunities ourselves and broker opportunities from local businesses.
- As an employer, we have signed up to become a care leaver friendly employer.
- We will offer guaranteed interviews when Care Leavers meet the minimum criteria.
You can pledge your support for the covenant and offer care leavers:
- paid employment, such as apprenticeships or internships.
- mentorships, taster sessions or interview support
- discounted or free goods and services
Benefits for your business
If you offer support to care leavers, you can:
- access a talent pool of young people who can help grow your business and fill skill gaps.
- contribute to your company’s social responsibility and diversity and inclusion activity.
- work with care leavers who are building independence, resilience, and adaptability.
Cost: You may have costs based on what you offer and your organisation size.
Duration: The duration will depend on what you offer. Find out more about the Care Leaver Covenant