An updated policy for care leavers aims to provide “equity and clarity” of the support available for them as they move into adulthood.

Pembrokeshire county council’s cabinet member for social services Clr. Tessa Hodgson added that the new Corporate Parenting Team financial policy for care leavers would “simplify” things for care leavers, the professionals that work with them and their families.

The matter was discussed at a meeting of the policy and pre-decision overview and scrutiny committee on Tuesday, June 8, where Clr. Hodgson highlighted the increasing number of children in care in Pembrokeshire with “the transition into adulthood is a difficult time.”

“For those with care experience it’s even more heightened and even more important that they have the right support and the right time,” she added.

Head of children’s services Darren Mutter said that greater clarity on guidance from Welsh Government had been anticipated but local authorities were still allowed a large amount of discretion, and “Pembrokeshire has historically been one of the most generous in terms of its support for its care leavers across Wales.”

There is a need for a consistent approach to avoid discrimination against individuals, a report to committee states, with each car leaver having their own specific needs.

Mr. Mutter said the policy provided “support opportunity” for care leavers who are at a disadvantage by virtue of being in the system and the aim was to provide “everything available to care leavers to give them the best chance moving from childhood into adulthood, so we can give them the best launchpad possible.”

It includes financial support for accommodation, furnishing a home, personal allowances, driving lessons and transport to work and education, equipment of education, clothing allowance and dental treatment.

Mr. Mutter added that there is also an important need to reduce the number of children coming into care and early intervention and prevention of that “would raise their prospects.”