Local businesses, charities, and public sector leaders came together at Oxfordshire Youth’s base in Cowley for a vital summit focused on supporting care leavers into employment. Hosted by the Oxfordshire Inclusive Economy Partnership (OIEP), in collaboration with Oxfordshire County Council and Oxfordshire Youth, the HR Network event highlighted the significant challenges faced by care-experienced young people in accessing the world of work—and the transformative impact that inclusive hiring can have.
Care leavers are more than twice as likely to be not in education, employment or training (NEET) compared to their peers, with 39% of those aged 19–21 falling into this category, according to national charity Home for Good. The event shone a spotlight on this stark statistic and explored how employers in Oxfordshire can play a role in closing this gap.
Speakers included Bethany Caunter, Strategic Partnerships Manager at the Care Leaver Covenant, who spoke about the national picture and the over 600 organisations already signed up to offer opportunities to care leavers. Carol Stewart, Leaving Care Service Manager at Oxfordshire County Council, provided insight into local challenges and the importance of stable employment pathways.
From Oxfordshire Youth, Deputy CEO Emmy O’Shaughnessy and Progression Coach Masako Ford shared moving stories of young people overcoming adversity, and practical guidance on how employers can offer meaningful support. Ian Langley, CEO of Focus Futures UK, added a business perspective, highlighting the untapped potential of care-experienced talent and the value of inclusive recruitment.
The event concluded with a strong call to action: for more local employers to step up, offer opportunities, and help make Oxfordshire a more inclusive and equitable economy for all.
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