TODAY'S announcement from the Government that it will give all fostered young people in England the right to remain with their foster carers until the age of 21, has been welcomed by Cumbria County Council.

The legal duty will be introduced as an amendment to the Children and Families Bill, and local authorities will be funded to the tune of £40 million over the next three years to put the arrangements in place.

Coun Anne Burns, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said the authority already encourages young people to leave care at a time that is right for them, and has a number of young people who have stayed on with their foster carers post 18.

“This change in legal duty, which is also backed up with appropriate financial support, allows other councils to follow our example and ensures that young people in England have the opportunity to enter adulthood supported by the foster families that care for them.”

For more information contact communications adviser Alice Gill on 01228226241 or alice.gill@cumbria.gov.uk