NEW research published by Who Cares? Scotland reveals a significant wage gap of up to £10,000 for care experienced individuals compared to their non-care experienced peers.
The report highlights that care experienced individuals face substantial financial struggles, with many struggling to make ends meet.
Data shows that for those aged 18 to 21, there is a potential 29% earnings gap, which increases to 38% for those aged 22 to 29—equivalent to nearly £10,000.
The report also reveals that 44% of care experienced survey respondents are living in relative poverty, more than double the Scottish national average of 21%.
Who Cares? Scotland is the national membership organisation for care experienced people
It advocates for those who have experienced care in various forms, including kinship care, foster care, children’s homes, and adoption.
This paper is the second in a five-part series and is part of the the charity’s Lifelong Rights Campaign.
It is based on a combination of an online survey and data gathered through its advocacy services. The report sets out ten practical solutions, including:
- Widening access to mid-market rental schemes to include provisions for Care Experienced adults.
- Implementing financial education from the early stages of care.
- Waiving council tax and rent arrears for Care Experienced individuals over 26 who missed exemptions or aftercare support.
- Ringfencing an emergency fund for Care Experienced adults within the Scottish Welfare Fund, with no age cap.
Louise Hunter, chief executive of Who Cares? Scotland, said: “Money impacts every aspect of someone’s life – from mental health, relationships, career opportunities to future aspirations.
“Financial security is not just about the amount someone has in the bank.
“By supporting care experienced people with the right education, tools, and employment opportunities, we can set them up to thrive.
“The ten solutions we propose in this paper are key to providing the necessary financial support to help them live a life without poverty.”
The charity hopes these actions will be taken before the conclusion of The Promise, a policy introduced by former first minister Nicola Sturgeon to transform the children’s care system.
