Children in care face numerous challenges that most people will never understand. As someone who has been through the care system, I know firsthand the struggles of feeling unheard, unsafe, and undervalued by those who are supposed to offer support and protection. Every child in care and each care leaver deserves the same opportunities for safety, stability, and growth as any other child, but the current system often fails to provide this.

In the UK, there are over 80,000 children in care at any given time, according to the Department for Education. Many of these children face instability, moving from one foster placement to another, with little chance to build lasting relationships. Statistics also show a glaring gap in educational attainment: only 13% of children in care achieve five or more good GCSEs, compared to nearly 60% of their peers not in care.

Sadly, the challenges don't end when a child leaves care. Many care leavers struggle with housing instability and mental health issues, exacerbated by a system that thrusts them into adulthood without adequate preparation or support. Reports from the National Audit Office reveal that half of all 16- to 17-year-olds in care leave their children's home settings or foster placements without a clear path forward.

Too often, accountability is the missing link. When the rights and needs of children in care are not met, the current system lacks the mechanisms to effectively address these issues. This is unacceptable in a society that aspires to equality and fairness for all its youth.

We are calling on the UK government and local authorities to initiate a comprehensive reform of the care system. **First**, there must be consistent standards across all care services to ensure no child or young person feels abandoned or unseen. **Second**, we need mandatory regular reviews of individual care plans to assess progress and ensure everyone’s needs are continually met. **Third**, there must be a structured support system for care leavers, featuring accessible mental health resources, career guidance, and stable housing options.

Furthermore, we urge the implementation of an independent oversight body responsible for ensuring compliance with care standards and holding services accountable. This body should have the power to investigate failures and drive improvements, ensuring that no child in care or care leaver's rights are neglected.

Join us in advocating for a brighter future for all children in care and young adults leaving the system. Every child deserves a chance to feel safe, supported, and heard. Please sign this petition to push for necessary changes and hold those in power accountable.