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What is the Care Leaver Covenant?
The Care Leaver Covenant is a national inclusion programme in England designed to support young people aged 16 to 25 as they transition from the care system to independent living. It is a formal “promise” made by private, public, and voluntary sector organisations to provide additional support beyond the statutory services offered by local authorities. These organisations pledge “offers” that include employment opportunities, training, financial discounts, and personal development tools to help care-experienced young people thrive.
Who is eligible for the Care Leaver Covenant?
To access the specific offers and support through the Covenant, you typically need to meet the following criteria:
- Age: You must be between 16 and 25 years old.
- Care Experience: You must have been “looked after” by a local authority for at least 13 weeks since the age of 14, with some of that time occurring after your 16th birthday.
- Location: The Covenant currently covers all of England.
Note from Li: While most offers end at 25, some specific schemes, like the Civil Service Care Leavers Internship, have extended eligibility up to age 30. Always check the specific terms of an offer if you are nearing the age limit.
What kind of support can you get?
The support provided through the Covenant is categorized into five key areas to ensure a holistic approach to independence:
| Area of Support | Examples of Offers & Opportunities |
| Independent Living | Help with DIY, furniture for your first home, and “welcome packs”. |
| Education & Work | Internships (e.g., Civil Service), apprenticeships with bursaries up to £3,000, and guaranteed interviews. |
| Finance | Discounts on utility bills, PureGym memberships (50% off), and support opening bank accounts. |
| Health & Wellbeing | Free gym access, mental health support, and tickets to cultural or sporting events. |
| Safety & Security | Mentoring, legal rights advocacy, and stable housing guidance. |
How do I sign up for the Care Leaver Covenant?
The easiest way for care leavers and their Personal Advisers (PAs) to access these opportunities is through the “Connects” platform.
- Register Online: Visit the official Care Leaver Covenant website and sign up for “Connects”.
- Download the App: There is a dedicated Care Leaver Covenant App available for smartphones that provides 24/7 access to exclusive discounts and giveaways.
- Personalized Updates: Once registered, you will receive bespoke notifications about opportunities in your local area based on your interests.
- Work with your PA: Your Personal Adviser can also join the platform to help you navigate and apply for the most relevant offers.
Why the Covenant matters: A perspective from Li Jean-Luc
As someone who has walked this path and worked alongside hundreds of care-experienced adults, I know that leaving care isn’t just a legal status change—it’s a profound life shift. In 2026, the digital landscape moves fast, but the need for a stable “corporate parent” remains.
The Care Leaver Covenant isn’t just about a 10% discount or a trial shift; it’s about visibility. It’s a signal from the wider world that they recognize your resilience and want to invest in your potential. Whether it’s the DWP helping you prep your Universal Credit claim 28 days before your 18th birthday or a local business offering a mentoring scheme, these are the “extra miles” that bridge the gap between surviving and thriving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I still get support if I’m already 21?
Yes. Statutory support and Covenant offers are available until your 25th birthday. You can even “re-enter” the system for a needs assessment if you previously chose to stop receiving support at 21.
Does the Covenant replace my local authority’s “Local Offer”?
No. The Covenant is additional to your local authority’s statutory duties. Your local council is legally required to publish their own “Local Offer,” which includes things like your Setting Up Home Allowance.
How do I get the £3,000 apprenticeship bursary?
If you started an apprenticeship on or after August 1, 2023, you are eligible. Your training provider must claim this for you, and it is usually paid in three installments over the first year.
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