Nicola Sturgeon took time to meet care experienced members of Aberlour, Staf and Who Cares? Scotland care leavers income advisory group. The young people shared their views about a guaranteed income pilot for care leavers similar to the pilot currently being trialled in Wales.
The care leaver guaranteed income pilot would provide security, complement Scottish Government commitments on social justice, tackling poverty and disadvantage and #KeepThePromise by ensuring care leavers are supported into a life of independence, self reliance and stability.
The First Minister heard directly from our members about the current financial situation and difficult choices many care experienced people are forced to make. They explained how a pilot could be a complete game changer for them. Ms Sturgeon made a commitment to listen and be involved in minimum income guarantee discussions.
Care Leaver Guaranteed Income Advisory Members said:
“The care experienced bursary has changed my life….imagine what we could do with a guaranteed income”
“Some young people in care are set up to fail… it’s difficult to get out of that situation when you can’t move on money-wise”
We will continue to engage with care experienced people to ensure their financial needs are met especially as we face a cost of living crisis.
The Welsh Government care leaver pilot was launched earlier this year. Their ground breaking policy can be found here: https://gov.wales/basic-income-pilot-care-leavers-detailed-guidance