Council Leader Alex Winning Pledges Continued Support for Southampton’s Care Leavers

Southampton City Council Leader Alex Winning has paid tribute to the city’s care leavers and the teams supporting them as the council marks National Care Leavers’ Month this November.

The month-long campaign celebrates the achievements of young people with experience of being in care and raises awareness of the support available to help them transition into adulthood. This year’s national theme, “Rising as Me: Overcoming challenges, transforming, and finding your identity,” encourages care leavers to take pride in their journeys and aspirations.

Councillor Winning, who previously served as the council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Learning, believes it’s vital that every young person in Southampton has the best possible start in life.

“One of the council’s biggest priorities is making sure every child and young person in Southampton is safe, healthy, happy, and ready to grab opportunities as they grow,” he said. “It’s something I feel passionate about — I’ve been a voluntary youth worker for many years and continue to be today.”

There are currently more than 315 young people with experience of care in Southampton. Each one is supported by a Personal Advisor, who helps them develop essential life skills — from managing finances and applying for university, to maintaining wellbeing and finding work.

“Leaving care isn’t easy,” Councillor Winning explained. “Managing a home, paying bills, studying, working, and building a future — these are big challenges. Growing up, I was fortunate to have strong family support, but like many of us, I still needed help and guidance as I transitioned to adulthood.

As a council, we act as the corporate parent for our care leavers. It’s our responsibility to ensure that every care leaver is fully supported to realise their ambitions. We enthusiastically celebrate their successes and listen carefully to their feedback — we are always looking for ways to improve their lives and their futures.”

Employment and housing support

Young people looking for jobs or training can access help through the Young Adults Employment Hub, which provides guidance on work placements, apprenticeships, and interview skills. The council is also working with local employers to increase the number of apprenticeship opportunities for care-experienced young people.

“We’re calling on local businesses to get involved,” Councillor Winning said. “If you are a local business and would like to find out more about how you can offer an apprenticeship, contact the Solent Apprenticeship and Skills Hub for more information.”

Finding safe and affordable accommodation remains one of the biggest challenges for care leavers. The council’s Post-16 Accommodation Service helps by matching young people with host homes — households that can offer a supportive environment as they take their first steps into independent living.

“Putting the key into the door of your first home is a huge step towards independence,” Councillor Winning said. “Our Housing Team and Post-16 Accommodation Service support this by matching host homes with young people, and they are always looking for more people to help.

If you have a spare bedroom and would be willing to offer a young person the chance of independence, please get in touch at Post16Accommodation@southampton.gov.uk.”

Celebrating success stories

Throughout November, the council will share stories and updates on social media to highlight the achievements of care-experienced young people. Already, Southampton care leavers have taken part in a seven-a-side football tournament with Portsmouth and the Saints Foundation, thanks to donations of footballs, boots, and training facilities from the Hampshire FA.

Some young people have also had the chance to visit the Houses of Parliament, where they met with MPs Darren Paffey and Josh McAllister. Later this month, the O2 Guildhall will be lit up to mark Care Leavers’ Month.

Support that lasts all year

The council’s work with care leavers continues beyond November, with regular social events including football matches, BBQs, pizza evenings, and Christmas festivities featuring gift hampers and activities.

“Events and activities that take place throughout the year are designed to support the growing community of care-experienced young people as they grow to become the business leaders, employees, and politicians of tomorrow — or whatever they set their minds to,” said Councillor Winning.

Southampton residents and businesses can get involved by offering work experience, discounts, or accommodation opportunities for care leavers.

Councillor Winning added, “If you’re inspired to support a care leaver, please contact 18-25duty@southampton.gov.uk.”