For most young people, turning 18 is a milestone filled with promise, support, and excitement. But for thousands of care leavers across the UK, it’s a starkly different story. Without a family safety net or dependable support systems, many step into adulthood alone, facing homelessness, financial insecurity, and isolation.
This Christmas, children’s charity Coram is launching an urgent appeal to address these challenges and provide critical support for care leavers navigating this difficult transition. Partnering with London-based agency Squirrels and Bears, the campaign sheds light on the stark realities faced by care leavers and invites the public to help change their futures.
A Campaign Rooted in Empathy
The 2024 Christmas Appeal highlights the stories of care-experienced individuals, blending heartfelt video content and powerful out-of-home messaging displayed across 90 key London locations, thanks to JCDecaux. Social media activations further amplify the campaign, ensuring the message reaches a wide audience.
“Our vision was to invite the public to take a walk in care leavers’ shoes, showcasing the contrast between their reality and the typical experiences of an 18-year-old,” said Petra Smith, founder of Squirrels and Bears.
With more than 12,000 young people set to leave care in the coming year, Coram emphasises the urgency of their appeal. Without adequate support, over one in ten care leavers aged 18 to 20 face homelessness, while countless others struggle with losing stable housing, access to education, and financial aid.
The Realities of Life After Care
Ben, a care-experienced young person, shared:
“I saw some other young people making gingerbread houses with their families. I was worried about having a real home to go to.”
Another care leaver reflected on the pain of seeing peers return to their families for Christmas:
“When I saw other people going home to their families, I worried about spending Christmas alone. Things are better now.”
These experiences are not uncommon, and Coram’s work is crucial in helping care leavers secure safe housing, access support networks, and navigate the challenges of early adulthood.
A Call to Action
Coram’s CEO, Dr Carol Homden, underscored the importance of the campaign:
“When young people leave the care system without the support they need, they risk losing everything: their home, education, financial assistance, and community. This appeal allows us to give them a lifeline, ensuring they don’t have to face their futures alone.”
Funds raised will be used wherever Coram’s expertise can make the greatest impact, from helplines and housing support to advocacy and life skills training. By donating, the public can help ensure that care leavers are given the chance to thrive.
An Invitation to Stand Together
Coram’s Christmas Appeal is more than just a call for donations—it’s a plea for solidarity. With every contribution, the charity can help care leavers step into adulthood with dignity and hope.
As Dr Homden noted:
“We hope this campaign will inspire the public to stand by care leavers this Christmas, ensuring they are not left to face the world alone.”
To donate and learn more, visit Coram’s website or follow the appeal on social media. This Christmas, be part of a story that transforms lives and creates change that lasts a lifetime.
