Protecting Care Experience
Care Experience becomes a Protected Characteristic!
A New Step Forward: How Protecting Care Experience Can Change Lives
Hey everyone!
I’ve got some exciting news to share that could make a big difference in the lives of people who’ve grown up in care…
On June 18th, something really important happened—Medway council voted to make care experience a protected characteristic.
This is a huge deal, and it means a lot for anyone who’s been in care!
Watch our Protected Characteristics video that helped capture and raise care experienced young people’s voices to the councillors to secure this outcome.
But what does it actually mean for you? Let’s break it down.
- Fair Treatment in School and Work
Imagine you’re applying for a job or trying to get into a college. Sometimes, people who don’t understand what it’s like to grow up in care might judge you unfairly or think you won’t do as well. But now, with care experience being protected, it’s against the law for anyone to treat you unfairly just because you were in care. This protection helps make sure you get the same chances as everyone else to achieve your dreams, whether it’s in school, work, or anywhere else.
- More Support When You Need It
Growing up in care can come with its own set of challenges. Sometimes, you might need a bit of extra help, whether it’s with your studies, finding a job, or even just having someone to talk to. With care experience being recognised as a protected characteristic, it means there will be more focus on making sure you get the support you need. This could mean more programs, mentoring, and resources that are designed to help you succeed and feel supported every step of the way.
- Breaking Down the Stigma
Sadly, there can still be some stigma attached to being in care. But this decision by the council sends a strong message: people with care experience deserve respect and fair treatment, just like anyone else. By making care experience a protected characteristic, it helps break down that stigma. It shows that your experiences are valued and that you have the right to be treated with dignity.
So, let’s celebrate this victory together and look forward to all the positive changes that are coming our way. Remember, your experience matters, and now, it’s being recognised in a big way!
To get involved with helping MYCPC raise the voices of care experienced young people sign up here: https://forms.office.com/e/CGStfUat8a