I am a care leaver in Cheshire East, and I recently moved to my independence flat. After settling in, I was informed that due to a change in circumstance, social services are pursuing cheaper placements for children, forcing care leavers like me to be uprooted from stable homes. This decision sacrifices our mental and physical well-being for the sake of cost-cutting.

In Cheshire East, nearly half of care leavers are being sent to facilities like the YMCA and Water Mill. These institutions, while providing some level of support, are not always tailored to the specific needs of care leavers transitioning into independent living. Many of us have faced significant challenges and need more personalized and stable environments to thrive.

It is unacceptable that financial considerations take precedence over the health and stability of those who have been in the care system for their formative years. The transition to independence is a critical period; being forcibly moved can exacerbate existing traumas and hinder personal growth.

Statistics reveal that care leavers are more likely to encounter issues such as homelessness, unemployment, and mental health struggles. Providing a supportive and stable living arrangement is essential in reducing these risks and helping care leavers succeed.

We must hold Cheshire East Council accountable for prioritizing the welfare of care leavers. Solutions such as assessing each care leaver's needs individually, investing in tailored support programs, and working with trusted housing providers to ensure stable living conditions should be pursued instead of opting for cheap, temporary fixes.

By signing this petition, you urge Cheshire East Council to reconsider their approach and commit to providing environments where care leavers can thrive emotionally, mentally, and physically. Together, we can push for change and ensure that care leavers have the opportunities they deserve. Please sign and share this petition to make a difference.