Children are 'pushed out before ready'

YOUNG people are being "pushed out" of the care system before they are ready, the children's commissioner said today.

Professor Kathleen Marshall, the commissioner for children and young people in Scotland, published a report into the issue which found many children in care were leaving at 16.

And she warned that can leave them vulnerable to homelessness, drink and drug problems and unemployment.

Scottish law advises that young people should be encouraged to stay in care until they are 18 years old if their welfare requires it.

But in the 'Sweet 16?' report Prof Marshall stated: "Many young people are still being pushed out of the care system before they are ready."

The Children's Commissioner said around 1330 young people left care last year and more than half of them were aged 16.

She said: "Turning 16 should be an exciting prospect – not one that brings the harsh realities of adult life without support, guidance and care."