A childhood friend whom became deeply routed in my life after meeting as children in Local authority care, I have witnessed first-hand the intense disadvantage and emotional turbulence that looked after children suffer. Not long ago, I lost my friend to suicide. It's a heart-wrenching loss that has prompted me to stand up for all looked after children and advocate for their rights.

Remembering Poppy: A Life and Legacy

Poppy was born 1994 and today, she would have been 30 years old. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy at a young age, Poppy faced numerous challenges from the beginning. However, her spirit shone brightly through it all. Despite her physical limitations, she was known for her warmth, creativity, and an infectious laugh that could brighten anyone's day. Poppy was not just a survivor of her circumstances; she was a fighter who navigated life with determination and hope.

Growing up in the care system, Poppy encountered a world that often overlooked her abilities and potential. As she transitioned into adulthood, the support systems that had once provided her with a sense of safety began to diminish when she turned 18. ( extended service to 25 if in education) Despite her resilience, Poppy struggled to find stable housing and access vital services, often feeling lost in a society that seemed to forget her and others like her.

November 2020, Poppy’s life took a tragic turn. After battling mental health challenges exacerbated by the trauma of her childhood, her cerebral palsy, and the lack of continued support, she made the heartbreaking decision to end her life. Her passing sent shockwaves through her community and highlighted the urgent need for change in how society supports care-experienced individuals, especially those with disabilities.

Poppy’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the gaps that exist in services for those who have grown up in care. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those who loved her and in the mission to create meaningful reforms to protect and support other young people facing similar struggles.

In her memory, we are launching a campaign for Poppy’s Law, advocating for extended priority service access for care-experienced individuals up to the age of 35. This initiative aims to ensure that no one else has to navigate adulthood alone and that all care leavers, especially those with disabilities, receive the support they need to thrive.

Poppy’s life may have been cut short, but her impact is far-reaching. Through Poppy’s Law, we hope to honor her memory by creating a better future for care leavers everywhere.

In the UK, the care system only supports these vulnerable individuals until they turn 21 (former leavers 18) years old, or in some cases 25 if they are in education. However, studies have consistently shown that the psychological and emotional challenges faced by these individuals extend far beyond these ages. We cannot shut our eyes to them when they turn 21 or even 25.

Nearly half (45%) of looked after children in England have a diagnosed mental health disorder. This is almost four times higher than the general child population (source: Children's Commissioner, England). Additionally, The Centre for Social Justice reports that 25% of UK homeless population has been in care. These statistics underscore the necessity for continued support.

We are petitioning the Department for Education, Department for Health and Department of Childrens Social Care to extend the priority service access rights of looked after children to the age of 35. The extension will ensure that they receive crucial support during the initial phases of their adult life, improving their mental health and setting them up for success.

By extending this critical support, our government can demonstrate commitment to the long-term wellbeing of some of its most vulnerable citizens. Please sign this crucial petition today and let's help looked after children get the support they rightfully deserve.