Leaving Care

Leaving care

Leaving care is when a young person moves from being looked after by the local authority (LA) to adult life and more independence.

Young people in care have often had hard experiences. These can include loss, change, or difficult times. They do not choose to come into care. They come into care to keep them safe when they cannot live at home.

Becoming a care leaver

When a young person is near adulthood, they become a care leaver. This is usually at age 18. Some young people can get support until age 21 or 25.

This change can be big. Many young adults still get help from family. Care leavers may need to be independent sooner. They may still be dealing with past experiences at the same time.

Support during leaving care

Leaving care support gives young people help and stability during this time.

Local authorities (LA) must stay involved. They must offer support and care. This includes:

• housing (a place to live)

• education (school, college, or university)

• training or employment (learning skills or finding work)

• health and wellbeing (mental and physical health)

• money (finances and budgeting)

• relationships (keeping safe and positive connections)

Becoming independent takes time. Support should match the young person’s needs.

Leaving care does not mean support stops. It means professionals stay alongside young people. They support them as they build:

• confidence

• resilience (ability to cope with challenges)

• a sense of belonging

This happens at a pace that suits the young person.

Personal Advisor support in Wirral

In Wirral, young people should have a Personal Advisor (PA) from age 16.

A Personal Advisor (PA) supports care leavers as they move into adult life. They:

• give advice

• share information

• help plan for independence

• offer ongoing support