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Extra support for foster children at university
Too many care experienced young people are missing out on the chance of individualised support while at university, a leading foster care charity has warned.
The Fostering Network Northern Ireland launched the Tick the Box awareness campaign on Wednesday.
By making sure they Tick the Box on their UCAS form saying they have spent time in the care system, young people can access additional support when starting university.
Support offered varies from university to university – it can range from additional financial support in the form of a bursary to practical support to help care leavers settle into university, find accommodation or manage finances.
Margaret Kelly, director of the Fostering Network, said that the charity has high aspirations for all young people in care. There are almost 2,000 children and young people living with foster families in Northern Ireland.
"That is why we are working with the University of Ulster and the Health and Social Care Board to launch this campaign to ensure all those involved in a looked after child's life enable them to fulfil their aspirations.
"That means foster carers actively supporting young people to go to university, Health Trusts providing funding and support for the young person attending university and the universities themselves offering active support and encouragement," Ms Kelly added.
"The focus of the Tick the Box campaign is to empower care experienced young people to get the advice and support on offer and encourage all of those involved in their lives to support them in doing so."
The Fostering Network Northern Ireland will be sending information leaflets and promotional products to all young people in care in lower and upper sixth.
Education reporter
30 October 2013
http://www.u.tv/News/Extra-support-for-foster-children-at-uni/719f4e75-710f-4a3a-8575-10e450d4efd3
