Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to leave my foster placement now I’m 16?

No. Nationally, Local Authorities do not expect young people to leave care at 16 and work to ensure that they will remain in settled placements at least until they reach the age of 18 and sometimes beyond that depending on individual circumstances. Young people are far more likely to achieve in school and in further education if they remain in care at least until they are 18.

What sort of help will I get now that I’ve left care?

The 16+ Team are responsible for ensuring young people are adequately housed, this might be in foster care, supported lodgings, hostel accommodation, supported shared accommodation or full independence.

By working in partnership and through the pathway planning process , the young person and their Social Worker or Personal Advisor will work towards full independence when the young person is ready. Young people will be encouraged to take part in Independence Preparation Group Work and Residential Programmes to ensure they have the necessary skills to succeed in independence.

Care Leavers are not entitled to claim state benefits until they reach the age of 18 so are financially supported by the team until that time. At 18 they will receive appropriate benefit advice from their Social Worker or Personal Advisor which will reflect their own individual circumstances.

We will consider providing resources to young people if it will assist  them in achieving the Every Child Matters 5 outcomes, Being Healthy, Staying Safe, Enjoying and Achieving, Making a Positive Contribution and Achieving Economic Wellbeing. 

Will I still get help after I’m 18?

Yes. We have a statutory duty to offer a service to care leavers until they reach the age of 21 or 24 if in Higher Education.

Will I Be Able to go to University?

If a young person has proved that they have the academic ability to undertake a course in Higher Education, they will be supported to do so by the 16+ Team. We will help with the application process, arranging student finance and securing accommodation.