EMBARGOED for Release: 00:01, Friday, 21st of October
EPIC and Care Leavers Ireland will host the third National Aftercare Conference entitled ‘Out on My Own’ in George’s Hall, Dublin Castle, Friday, October 21st 2016. The conference opening address will be made by President Michael D. Higgins. Speakers on the day will include young people with care experience, as well as a panel of experts who will be answering young people’s questions.
Speaking ahead of the conference, Director of EPIC, Jennifer Gargan said:
“EPIC and Care Leavers Ireland are really looking forward to celebrating National are Leavers Day. The purpose of this conference is to raise awareness of the issues for young people leaving State Care and identify gaps in service provision to policymakers through directly hearing from young people’s seldom heard voices.
Young people will give their perspectives and speak of their experiences of the “good”, the “bad” and the “reality” of leaving care. We hope their voices will raise awareness amongst policymakers, professionals and the public about the care system particularly highlighting the vulnerabilities and supports these young people need and should receive as they transition into adulthood.”
Chair of Cares Leavers Ireland, Noel Howard said:
“Even the most fortunate young person, benefitting from all the supports of family, school and community, who leaves home at 18 will have difficulties at one time or another. Care leavers, even with the best that the care system can offer, face the daunting prospect of being on their own with very often few such supports. This conference will reflect aspects of this situation from those who know most about it – care leavers. Another perspective from Scotland, will give an interesting and challenging view of the system for care leavers there and from which much can be learned.”
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For all media enquiries, or to arrange an interview please contact:
Jennifer Gargan, Director of EPIC Noel Howard, Care Leavers Ireland
Tel: 01 872 7661/0866073866 Tel: 087 1331280
Email: jennifergargan@epiconline.ie nh99@eircom.net
EPIC (formerly IAYPIC) is an independent association that works throughout the Republic of Ireland, with and for children and young people who are currently living in care or who have had an experience of living in care.
Care Leavers Ireland is a charity founded in 2008 which makes modest grants available to care leavers who are pursuing an education or career path.