Care Leaver Kits

What the project is

Care Leaver Kits is a SUTTONfx project run in partnership with the St Nicholas Mothers’ Union, created to support young people in Sutton as they leave the care system and move into independent living. Leaving care can be an exciting step, but it can also be a time of real pressure and loneliness. These kits are a practical way for the local community to say, “You are not forgotten”, and to help make those first days in a new home a little easier.

How it began

The idea grew out of conversations within SUTTONfx and the Mothers’ Union about the challenges faced by care leavers and the limited resources many have when they first set up on their own. We wanted to respond in a way that was simple, tangible, and respectful: a small package of essential items, given with care, and coordinated through the Council’s Care Leaving Team so the right support reaches the right people.

What the kits include

Each kit is designed to be both useful and encouraging. Contents vary depending on what is most needed, but typically include practical essentials for day-to-day living, alongside personal touches such as a handwritten letter of encouragement. Some items must be purchased and, for safeguarding and dignity, all donated items must be new and in their original packaging.

How the kits are delivered

We provide kits in batches of five, working closely with Sutton Council’s Care Leaving Team. This partnership ensures the kits are distributed appropriately and at times when young people most need support.

How you can help

1. Buy an item for the next batch

We keep a list of items needed for each batch of five kits. If you would like to purchase something, please choose an item from the list and let Jeff or Nicki know what you plan to provide, so we can avoid duplication and make sure every kit is complete.

2. Donate towards the cost

Not everyone is able to shop for items, but you can still support the project by contributing towards the cost of one of the items needed for a batch of boxes. Every contribution helps us fill the kits with the essentials that must be bought new.

3. Pray and write letters

You can also support the project through prayer, for the success of the project and for the young people who will receive the kits. We also welcome volunteers to write the handwritten letters that go into each box. These personal messages of encouragement and kindness are a powerful reminder that someone is thinking of them and wishing them well.

Get involved

If you would like to help by buying items, donating money, offering prayer, or writing letters, please contact jeff@suttonfx.com. Thank you for helping our community support Sutton’s care leavers with practical help and genuine encouragement.