Closing the Gap - Empower Care Leavers in London

Over the last three months, your support enabled 24 young people to take the next step on their journey from care to career; with 8 individuals receiving repeat assistance (ranging from two to five payments). The total range of funds provided was between £20 and £289, with an average payment of £68 across 34 disbursements. The Hardship Fund was utilised six times, offering immediate relief in emergency situations, with an average payment of £43. Notably, no individuals required repeat additional hardship support (e.g. for household bills or food), highlighting the effectiveness of addressing urgent, one-time financial needs. 

On behalf of all young people supported, Thank You! Here are some of their stories. 

Jane’s Journey into a Career in Law: In 2023, Jane joined Drive Forward Foundation just as she began her Law degree. Despite receiving student finance, it wasn’t enough to cover her living costs, so she needed to find work alongside her studies. With the help of Ahmed, her Career Specialist at Drive Forward, they worked together to create law-specific and general CVs. While Jane received offers for some hospitality roles, the locations were impractical, so she didn’t take the roles.Though she hadn’t yet found a job, Jane remained fully engaged with Drive Forward’s services, attending job fairs, social events, and insight days. After a year of persistence, Jane received a job offer as a support worker in September 2024, assisting people with disabilities and the elderly. However, with her first pay check not arriving until the end of the month, she needed financial support to cover travel and lunch costs.Jane’s story highlights the importance of flexible financial support for young people in a similar position who are striving to build their future while overcoming financial challenges. The Closing the Gap Fund provided the vital support Jane needed, allowing her to start her new job without worrying about choosing between meals and getting to work. Now, Jane is more motivated than ever to continue her Law degree and continues to thrive at Drive Forward events. 

Sammy’s Journey Balancing Two Part-Time Jobs, a Nursing Degree and Homelessness: Sammy joined Drive Forward in June 2023, knowing she would begin her nursing degree that September. From the start, she was highly motivated, attending numerous Drive Forward events, particularly those related to the NHS. However, like many students, Sammy found that student finance wasn’t enough to cover her expenses. With the help of Ahmed, her Careers Specialist at DFF, she secured her a part-time job at Pret A Manger, where her travel and lunch were covered. Later, Sammy took on a second job to supplement her income, but balancing two part-time roles alongside her degree became overwhelming, especially as she faced a housing crisis.During this time, Sammy became homeless. Ahmed worked tirelessly to secure her emergency housing, but complications arose as there was confusion over her eligibility, requiring proof of whether she was a care-leaver or care-experienced. Despite securing temporary accommodation, the high rent and instability made it difficult for Sammy to manage her studies. In June 2024, under the weight of these challenges, she left her nursing course.Ahmed continued to support Sammy, helping her find a new job with a hospitality agency in July 2024. The Closing the Gap Fund was instrumental in covering her travel and lunch costs, ensuring she could sustain her new job. Fortunately, Ahmed's efforts with housing were successful, and Sammy was finally granted the duty of care, entitling her to permanent housing.Although this was a significant relief, Sammy still faced financial difficulties. One day, while Sammy was at work, an unexpected direct debit left her without enough money for food or to get home. She reached out to Ahmed, who quickly arranged support through the Hardship Fund, helping her bridge the gap until her next pay check. Now, Sammy is focused on her future, searching for her next steps and exploring new career opportunities. 

The Closing the Gap Fund and Hardship Fund have proven to be a crucial lifeline for young people facing financial challenges while pursuing their education and careers. Both Jane and Sammy's stories illustrate the transformative impact of this assistance, helping them navigate financial hardships and stay focused on their future goals. Whether covering immediate needs like travel and lunch costs or offering emergency relief through the Hardship Fund, the support provided has made a tangible difference in their lives. 

Moving forward, the Closing the Gap Fund and your generous support will continue to play an integral role in ensuring that young people like Jane and Sammy can remain resilient and motivated in the face of adversity, ultimately helping them to build successful and sustainable futures. 

Thank you for your continued support & believing in their potential!

Your Drive Forward Team