A Sustainable Path for Care Leavers: High-Quality, Cost-Effective Residential Support

danield613
May 21
3 min read

Updated: 1 day ago

By Daniel, Oasis Care UK

"Sometimes, all they need is a place that doesn't just house them, but hears them." — Maria, Support Worker, Oasis Care

The Challenge Facing Local Authorities

Across the UK, councils are working hard to balance rising demand for 16+ residential care with increasingly tight budgets. With more young people leaving the care system each year, the need for high-quality, cost-effective solutions has never been greater. At Oasis Care, we’re proud to partner with local authorities to deliver sustainable care models that help young people thrive, without stretching budgets beyond breaking point.

The Rising Need for Tailored Care

Every year, over 10,000 young people aged 16 to 18 leave the UK’s care system (National Audit Office, 2023). Many of them have experienced instability, trauma, or a lack of supportive networks. Transitioning to independence is rarely smooth, they need more than a roof over their heads. These young people require emotional support, life skills, and personalised care that builds confidence and direction.

Unfortunately, council resources are under immense pressure. The result? Fewer options, longer waiting times, and difficulty placing young people in homes that match their needs.

Financial Pressures: A Shared Burden

Fully managed residential placements, while essential in many cases, can cost councils anywhere between £4,000 and £6,000 per young person, per week. For many local authorities, these figures are simply not sustainable.

This is where Oasis Care steps in. Our approach blends cost efficiency with uncompromising care quality, offering councils a realistic and flexible alternative.

What Makes Oasis Care Different?

1. Affordability Without Compromise

We’ve developed a cost-effective model that supports local authorities to stay within budget without cutting corners. Our rates are significantly lower than traditional residential placements, yet we maintain a high standard of care and support.

2. Tailored, Flexible Packages

We know every young person is different. That’s why our care plans are shaped around individual needs, challenges, and goals. Whether it’s help with emotional regulation, vocational training, or basic life skills, we meet them where they are.

3. Focus on Long-Term Independence

The end goal is always independence. Through 1:1 keywork sessions, budgeting workshops, and personalised support plans, our residents are equipped with the tools they need to eventually thrive on their own.

4. Holistic, Trauma-Informed Support

Our residential homes are more than just buildings, they’re spaces of safety, stability, and growth. Our trained staff provide trauma-informed care, emotional support, and community connection. This approach ensures better outcomes, and lower reliance on long-term services.

Supported Accomadation: A Bridge to Independence

Not every care leaver needs 24/7 supervision. Our supported accommodation options provide a vital middle ground: structure and guidance where needed, independence where possible. For local authorities, this model presents a more affordable solution, while still offering young people the scaffolding they need to build their lives.

Our hybrid pathway, from fully managed care to supported Accomadation, creates a smoother transition for young people and allows councils to scale placements depending on risk, readiness, and budget.

Why Oasis Care is the Partner of Choice for Local Authorities

Scalable, Sustainable Solutions

Whether you’re looking for a small number of placements or developing regional pathways, our services are designed to flex with your needs. We're already expanding across the South West and welcome conversations about new partnerships.

Proven Impact

We focus on reducing long-term dependency on services by equipping young people with real-life skills. The result? Better futures for residents and reduced costs for local authorities.

A True Partnership Approach

We don’t just deliver a service, we work with you. Our team builds transparent, collaborative relationships with commissioners, offering regular updates, outcome tracking, and responsive support.

A Sustainable Future for Residential Care

At Oasis Care, we believe that sustainability and quality can go hand in hand. We’re committed to co-creating solutions with local authorities that support vulnerable young people, and respect the pressures councils face.

Young people leaving care deserve more than stopgap measures. They deserve consistency, compassion, and the chance to build a future. Let’s make sure they get it.

We currently have residential and supported accomadation vacancies. To find out how we can support your placements, contact us today.

👉 Contact us: https://www.oasiscareukgroup.com/contact-10