For many young people, stepping out into the world on their own is an exciting and much-anticipated milestone. But for young people leaving care, it can be an especially tough step. Without the same safety net many others rely on, they often face the world alone – juggling bills, finding housing, and trying to build a future while coping with feelings of isolation or anxiety.
Research by Barnardo’s* paints a stark picture: almost half (46%) of care leavers were identified as having mental health needs. Shockingly, two-thirds (65%) weren’t getting any support from statutory services like the NHS – and only 9% were even on a waiting list.
This National Care Leavers Month shines a spotlight on those challenges and the support that can make a real difference. Procure Plus has shown its commitment through its charitable subsidiary, Re:vision, which helps remove barriers and open doors for young people building independence after care.
Using grant funding from Re:vision, not-for-profit organisation Right Resolution CIC – which supports care leavers aged 16 to 24 to develop independent living skills – partnered with professional therapy and training service Broad Horizons. Together, they’ve delivered in-house therapy for care leavers in Northamptonshire, helping young people build emotional resilience, confidence, and stability.
From struggle to stability
One young person, Paul, had been struggling with low mood, depression, and difficulty managing his home. Early in his therapy journey, he was supported by a trusted worker to help him feel comfortable, gradually gaining the confidence to attend sessions independently. Through Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, he worked through a family bereavement, learned new coping techniques, and developed a healthier daily routine.
After 15 one-to-one sessions, Paul’s progress has been remarkable. He now feels calmer, more in control, and better able to manage his home life. It’s just the start of his journey, but one that’s already reshaping his outlook and self-belief.
Paul isn’t alone. Another young person accessed therapy to help manage anxiety and grief linked to financial uncertainty, while another, facing health challenges, was able to attend through a mix of in-person and phone appointments thanks to Broad Horizons’ flexible approach. Each has gained tools to better understand themselves and take positive steps towards independence.
Transforming lives with therapy
Between February and April 2025, seven participants have taken part in therapy. All seven have secured housing or sustained a tenancy for six months, thanks to the confidence and practical tools they developed through the sessions. Five individuals are still engaging in ongoing therapy, while two have decided to pause before resuming sessions in future due to external factors.
“Therapy has been a contributing factor in their overall wellbeing and outlook on life. They want to leave their flats, engage in activities, they are looking after themselves better by cooking, and they look forward to attending therapy,” said Amarjit Pawar, Director and Project Manager at Right Resolution CIC.
“We’ve even had one young person recently say how therapy has made her realise that what had happened to her in the past wasn’t her fault – this has been a huge step for her in her recovery.
“We’re so grateful to Procure Plus for their support, which has given these young people the opportunity to start a journey that they never thought they would ever have. It’s made such a meaningful, real difference.”
Mike Brogan, Chief Executive of Procure Plus, said:
“Through Re:vision, we’ve been able to use grant funding to make therapy accessible to more young people. When given the right support at the right time, people can grow in confidence and start to see a positive future for themselves, and we’re proud to play a small part in their journey to independence.
“By collaborating with Right Resolution and Broad Horizons, we’ve created pathways that support care leavers to thrive, giving them the tools and support to live independently. National Care Leavers Month is a reminder that with the right care, compassion, and opportunity, every young person can build a brighter future.”
*Barnardo’s, Neglected Minds
**Name changed for anonymity
