A team from Step by Step and the University of Southampton recently attended the Houses of Parliament to present the findings of their collaborative research project, Moving Towards Independence. This unique study collected the views and experiences of young people leaving supported accommodation, with the aim of creating recommendations shaped by the young people themselves.
At the meeting organised by Alex Baker MP, the team called for decision-makers to address four key priorities - factors that young people feel would help the challenging transition to independent living. These are:
Stevie, a young person supported by Step by Step, also spoke to the panel of MPs, sharing her own inspiring story while eloquently representing the views and experiences of the young people who contributed to the unique research project.
The panel was comprised of: Tom Hayes, MP for Bournemouth East; Gregory Stafford, MP for Farnham and Bordon; and Peter Sallow, MP for Bracknell, Crowthorne, Sandhurst and Whitegrove.
Alex Baker MP commented: “In this research, the young people themselves told us what would help them transition to the next stages of their lives. It is vitally important that we listen, since the statistics show that people leaving care are more likely to experience joblessness, suffer from poorer health, have fewer qualifications, and are more likely to end up in trouble with the police.
“The work of local charity Step by Step shows that investing in support for young care leavers early on can massively improve their lives and reduce the longer-term costs to the state.”
After the well-received meeting, Debbie Moreton, Step by Step CEO, commented: “Speaking in the House of Commons today was an incredible privilege and a profound opportunity to amplify the voices of young people navigating the challenging transition to independence. Sharing their lived experiences and insights is vital for driving meaningful change in policy and practice.
"I am deeply grateful to Alex Baker MP for organising this event and championing the cause of young people, ensuring their voices are heard at the highest level."
Step by Step’s Moving Towards Independence project exemplifies the power of collaboration, research, and advocacy in making a real difference. The insights from young people themselves are at the heart of driving meaningful change and ensuring they receive the support they need to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. These young people are the true heroes of their own stories, demonstrating resilience and courage in the face of adversity.
Download the Moving Towards Independence report here.
Dylan had fought for 2 years to get the disability payments he needed to live independently. Launch took on his case, advocating for him at a tribunal.
Read more