Cash Grants Boost Care Leavers' Outcomes

0:00On March 16, a new study from King's College, London, shows that giving young care leavers a one-time grant of 2,000 pounds with no strings, attached leads to better outcomes. Researchers found these young people were less likely to end up homeless in hospital overnight or facing arrests and prison time. They also reported feeling more optimistic and better at handling problems. The study involved 302 people aged 18 to 25, who had been in care under 9 local authorities in England, all filled out an initial survey, then 100 were randomly selected to get the cash starting in June 2023. Teams checked in at 6 months and 12 months to track progress. Care leavers often faced tough odds without family support, like higher rates of homelessness, joblessness, and run-ins with the law. In 22-year-old participant, used her grant to buy a computer for university studies and forensic investigations and take a short trip with her, partner, calling it a real game

1:00changer for stability. Those who got the money showed more stable housing, less sofa surfing, and 12% less spending on alcohol, tobacco, or drugs. They visited doctors more, but avoided longer hospital stays, with benefits showing up stronger at either the 6th month or one year mark. The Center for Homelessness Impact, which funded the work, urges councils to try similar direct cash support. Researchers are now testing 2,000-pound grains for homeless adults, and calling for larger, longer trials to explore bigger amounts or repeat. Payments