Gaps in system after leaving care ‘must be tackled’

A conference around issues affecting people leaving care will today hear that some young people still face uncertainty around the level of supports open to them, despite considerable improvements in the system over recent years.

The conference, organised by EPIC (Empowering Young People in Care) and Care Leavers Ireland, will feature contributions from young people who have recently left the care system, outlining what has worked for them and improvements that could help others.

Terry Dignan, CEO of EPIC, said around 500 young people leave the care system each year upon turning 18, and while aftercare is now a right rather than an option, implementation of supports is still inconsistent across the country.