More than 500 people will be offered the payments from July 1, something the Welsh government has said it hopes will help them “on a path to living healthy, happy and fulfilling lives”. People leaving care are someone who has spent time in foster care or home care, away from family, but is ready to leave because he or she is turning 18. The trial, called the Basic Income pilot program, will cost 20 20 million, take three years and be carefully evaluated to see its impact on those involved, Welsh ministers said. The Labor government has said it will provide independence and security to those who have faced enormous challenges during their childhood, giving them more control over their lives and empowering them to make decisions about their future. Tiff Evans of Voices from Care Cymru, speaking on behalf of young people with care experience, welcome the program. He said: “This is a great opportunity for those leaving care in Wales. “It is good to see people leaving care in Wales being examined and the Welsh government giving them the opportunity as young people to become responsible, to control certain areas of their lives and to have the opportunity to thrive and be financially independent. ». He added: “We thank the Government of Wales for investing in them and their future and look forward to other changes and developments for experienced young people in Wales to achieve their life aspirations.” Individuals leaving the participating caregiver will also receive individual advice and support to help them manage their finances and develop their financial and budgeting skills. Local authorities will play a key role in supporting them throughout the pilot project. Voices from Care Cymru will also work with young people to give them tips on prosperity, education, employment and help them plan their future after the pilot. Jane Hutt, Minister of Social Justice, said: “We will carefully evaluate the lessons learned from the pilot. Listening to all participants will be crucial in determining the success of this ambitious global project. “We will look at whether Basic Income is an effective way to support the most vulnerable in society, not only for the individual but also for society at large.” Joel James, the Conservative Party’s shadow social justice minister, said the plan could well “create more problems than it solves.” “It has been repeatedly proven that the so-called Universal Basic Income does not work,” he said. “Look at Finland, which left its system after two years in favor of a new system that encouraged people to take up work or training. . “ “We recognize that this is a vulnerable group and they need extra support, but he is completely wrong. He is a typical Labor, but it is obvious that providing free money will not be a quick fix.” Mark Drakeford, Wales’ first minister, said: “Many of those involved in this pilot do not have the support many people – myself included – have been fortunate enough to enjoy as we begin our journey into adulthood. “Our radical initiative will not only improve the lives of those involved in the pilot program, but will also bring rewards to the rest of Welsh society. “If we achieve what we are trying to achieve today, this will be just the first step in a journey that will benefit future generations.” The Basic Income pilot program will be limited to caregivers completing their 18th birthday between 1 July 2022 and 30 June 2023. Participants in the pilot program can choose whether to receive their payment either monthly or twice a month, which will be paid to them by an external provider and will be taxed at the basic withholding tax rate.
