Calderdale Council has taken a significant step towards creating better opportunities for young people leaving care by embracing the Care Leaver Friendly Charter.
As part of its commitment to supporting young individuals transitioning from care, the Council ensures they receive the necessary support to realise their full potential. To achieve this goal, Calderdale Council has officially become a Care Leaver Friendly Employer by adopting the nationally recognised Care Leaver Friendly Employer Charter.
This charter, developed in collaboration with recruitment specialists Penna and the Care Leaver Covenant, outlines nine essential principles that employers should adhere to. These principles focus on creating a supportive environment during recruitment, tracking, and development processes, ensuring that care leavers are identified and provided with the necessary assistance.
By enrolling in the charter, the Council has committed to specific criteria that will enable care leavers to flourish in the workplace. Notably, care leavers who meet the minimum requirements for Calderdale Council apprenticeships or job positions are guaranteed an interview. Moreover, care leavers working within the Council will receive ongoing support and understanding to tackle any additional challenges they might face.
With this proactive approach, Calderdale Council aims to empower care leavers and foster a nurturing work environment that encourages their professional growth and success.
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People’s Services, Cllr Adam Wilkinson, said; “We want to support all young people leaving care and see them thrive, both professionally and personally. Our commitment to the Care Leaver Friendly Employer Charter further reinforces our corporate parenting responsibilities by providing opportunities within the organisation and recognising the amazing talents that so many of our young people possess.”
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Resources, Cllr Silvia Dacre, said; “Reducing inequalities is a key priority for the Council and we understand that many care leavers face additional challenges, both accessing employment opportunities and feeling supported throughout their time in work.
“We want our young people to achieve their very best and one of the ways we’re doing this is by making sure that our recruitment process is as accessible as possible and providing greater opportunities for our young people to be supported into work or training.”
