The transition from care to independent living is a critical juncture for young people, often requiring immediate access to reliable information on housing, finance, and wellbeing. Addressing this need, Croydon Council launched the Croydon Cares app on 31 January 2025.
The platform is designed specifically for “care-experienced” young people; care leavers taking their first steps into independence. Unlike generic informational tools, the app’s architecture and content were co-designed by the users themselves to ensure relevance and accessibility.
User-Led Design
The development process, led by the Bournemouth-based digital agency This Is Focus Ltd, prioritised user experience (UX) from the outset. The agency has a track record in this niche, having delivered similar successful platforms for local authorities in Brighton and Hove, Medway, and Greater Manchester.
However, the specific functionality of the Croydon iteration was driven by a working group of local young people, including Young Ambassadors Javelle, Jordan, and Deshawn. Their input ensured the app moved beyond a passive directory to become an active support tool.
“This app empowers us young people with the tools we need to thrive, including support with financial issues and smart budgeting tools,” noted Javelle, who was instrumental in the design phase.
Deshawn, another key contributor, highlighted the professional utility of the platform: “It gives us users the right professional connections for work. It’s got a really user-friendly design and layout which makes it easy to use.”
Core Functionalities
The app serves as a digital “pocket guide” for essential life skills and services. The core modules include:
- Housing & Accommodation: Guidance on tenancy rights, securing accommodation, and managing bills.
- Money & Finance: Budgeting tools and advice on financial management.
- Health & Wellbeing: Direct signposting to physical and mental health support services.
- Employment: Connections to professional networks and job opportunities.
Implementation & Support
The launch event at Fisher’s Folly was attended by Mark Riddell, the National Implementation Adviser for Care Leavers, signalling the significance of digital inclusion in modern social care strategies.
While the app provides a technological solution, it is intended to complement, not replace, human support networks. It acts as an immediate reference point for advice when personal advisors or support staff may not be instantly available.
Executive Mayor Jason Perry endorsed the tool as a key part of the borough’s corporate parenting responsibility, stating, “Making sure they can access the right information, advice and guidance when and where they need it is vital. The Croydon Cares app will help to do just that.”
Availability The Croydon Cares app is available now, free of charge, on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
