Congratulations for the article on My Shout magazine for young people in care.

It should remind us all that they are there as a result of the lack of family support networks which most of us take for granted in our youth.

Only a few months ago, young people leaving care for supported housing, where they are helped in understanding their adult responsibilities as well as rights, were being demonised as part of the debate on a proposed housing scheme, despite the fact that two of the seven places were for young people with physical disabilities.

I am very pleased that lessons have been learned as to how Sutton Council consults local residents over future supported housing schemes so that there is early resident input prior to submission of planning applications.

Full coverage of the borough by neighbourhood forums would help this consultative process even more.

I think you are right to remind council taxpayers that support for young people in care and when they leave it, is incredible value for money in giving young people a real chance in life.

The alternative is to do nothing and for all of us to pay far more in the long run!

COUN CHARLIE MANSELL, Leader of the Labour Opposition, Civic Offices, Sutton

July 18, 2002 12:00