Sutton makes care experience a protected characteristic

Sutton Council is committed to improving the outcomes of young people who experience care and has fully endorsed that experience of care becomes a locally protected characteristic, becoming one of a handful of councils in the UK to do so. 

The commitment was unanimously agreed by councillors at last night’s Strategy and Resources committee meeting.

People who have experienced care as children can face inequalities which affect their career opportunities. But, with the right support in place, many go on to run successful businesses, develop careers in professions such as teaching and social work, and be role models in their community.

More than 500 children and young people under the age of 25 are experiencing or have experienced care in Sutton.

A resident who has experienced care but wishes to remain anonymous, said:

“From being in care, I know a lot of us face challenges which stem from broken family units, so I wouldn’t want that to affect a person’s chances of trying to make something of themselves or achieving their dreams.

“Treating experience of care as a protected characteristic will allow care leavers to know they have the same opportunities as those who haven’t been in care. It will give them the confidence to go for that job interview or to apply for that job, knowing they won’t be overlooked on the basis that they were once in care.”

Recognising care as a protected characteristic will ensure the Council considers the impact of its policies and decisions on people who have experienced care.

The Council will review its equality impact assessment approach and social value policy to identify opportunities for the whole Council to improve opportunities for people with care experience. 

In addition, the Council will support young people with care experience in developing  skills to help them successfully apply for employment. Work experience placements will be offered within the Council which match their interest and ambitions, as well as supporting them in obtaining an apprenticeship role. 

Cllr James, Chair of People Committee, said: 

“We are ambitious for all of Sutton’s children and young people and are committed to creating an inclusive borough for everyone. 

“By recognising the experience of care as a protected characteristic, we will keep children and young people who have experienced care at the forefront of our decision making and create more opportunities for them to achieve their ambitions.”