This single authored article publishes the findings of the only national research about the impact of the Children (Leaving Care) Act 2000 on the life chances of young people leaving care. It is widely quoted by professionals, academics and government, and the author is the only academic whose leaving care research is referenced in the DfES 2006 Green Paper Care Matters. As a result of the methodology and national scope of the study, it is used by professionals, campaigners, academics alike to improve young people’s outcomes and lobby for improved services.