Assembly agrees to allow first Member-proposed Bill
10 January 2012
The National Assembly for Wales has agreed to allow the first Member-proposed Bill to be introduced.
AMs voted in favour of the proposal for a law on continuity from care into adult life during the Plenary meeting at the Senedd on 11 January, giving their agreement for the proposal to be developed into a Bill and to progress to the first stage of the legislative process.
The proposal for a Bill was put forward by Ken Skates AM, whose name was drawn in the first Member Bill ballot in October last year.
“I’m delighted to be the first to have this opportunity to create backbench legislation in the new Assembly,” said Mr Skates.
“Leaving care is a big deal for every looked-after child and their transition to adult life is too often a stage in their development where problems occur.Adulthood comes very quickly for these vulnerable people and the prospect of living alone hangs heavily over their young heads from the age of 14 or 15.
“Many don’t get the transition support they need, with a recent report by the Children’s Commissioner highlighting that some leave care before they are ready to do so.
“Many lack the educational qualifications, housing support and emotional help they need to thrive in adult life and struggle later on as a consequence.
“Leaving care services are often inconsistent across Wales and we need to do more to strengthen support structures as young people leave care.
“We continue to give help and support to our own children well after the age of 18, but yet vulnerable young people in care often have to face the world alone.
“This has to change and that is why I am seeking the opportunity to put forward new legislation to replace the abrupt ending of care with more gradual phases tailored to the young person’s needs.
“Where it is appropriate this could mean allowing care placements to continue up until the age of 25.There are many different options to explore, but young people at this age definitely need more support beyond the point they have now.”
The Presiding Officer of the National Assembly Wales, Rosemary Butler AM, said:
“Member-proposed Bills are important tools in demonstrating how the Assemblycan respond to the needs of the people of Wales by recognising issues raised by Members in specific areas which need to be addressed nationwide.”
“In order to make the National Assembly more open and accessible, I want to ensure that more time is dedicated to individual Members’ business. This will allow Members to bring forward issues and proposals raised with them by constituents.”
Mr Skates now has nine months to formally introduce his Bill.