This week is National Care Leavers and Somerset County Council is highlighting the need to recruit more ‘Stepping Stones’ to support young care leavers. 

Care Leavers are defined as young people and adults who have spent time under the care of the local authority. 

Those aged 16 to 21 are supported by Stepping Stones carers while making the transition from care to independent living when they are not yet ready to live on their own. 

This involves providing them with a safe place to stay, helping them gain crucial life skills and experience such as managing bills, cooking and shopping, and encouraging them to seek further opportunities in education or employment. 

Cllr Frances Nicholson, lead member for children’s services at Somerset County Council, said: “Stepping Stones placements help provide the building blocks of independence, allowing care leavers to take on more responsibility for looking after themselves gradually, much like teenagers and young people living in their family homes do.

“It’s important our young care leavers have continued support as they move forwards, so they can achieve their true potential.” 

Stepping Stones placements are relatively short – anything from a few months to a couple of years – and a Stepping Stones carer can continue to work alongside their caring role. 

To be eligible, a ‘Stepping Stones’ carer needs to be aged 23 or over, have a spare room in their home, and, ideally, live in a Somerset town as it is important that care leavers have access to good transport links and amenities, as well as career opportunities.

In return, providers receive a weekly fee, starting at £188 per week, plus a little extra for food and utilities (up to £27.50) paid weekly by the young person from their allowance. 

Stepping Stones providers are also eligible for the same tax exemptions and relief as foster carers, but have much more flexibility to work full or part-time alongside their care role. 

There is no upper age limit: wisdom and experience are a bonus. People from all backgrounds and ethnicities are welcome, as are those who are single, LGBT, renting or who have children of your own already. 

For more information on Stepping Stones care or fostering, visit www.fosteringinsomerset.org.uk, follow on Facebook and Instagram, or call 0800 587 9900. Applicants can also email the team at