A new policy announcement in Scotland regarding young people in care highlights the effect strong, coordinated and consistent advocacy can have on bringing about change in public health policy.

The challenges for young people transitioning from state care into independent adulthood are well documented. The great work of many organisations and people in Victoria limits some of the difficulties but young people exiting the Child Protection system still find themselves battling homelessness, unemployment, mental health and drug and alcohol related issues all too often. Interestingly, at an age when their less vulnerable peers are still largely dependant on their parents and families for accommodation and economic support, young people exiting care are expected to be largely independent.

Similar issues in the UK have led to a change in government policy where young Scottish people in care will be eligible for support until they are 26. This report highlights the effect strong coordinated and consistent advocacy can have on bringing about change in public health policy.

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