Leaving home can be a challenge for anyone, but it can be even tougher if you’re a young person leaving care.
First steps into adulthood
We know that taking your first steps into adulthood is both exciting and daunting. You gain new independence and get to make your own choices. But you also have to budget, keep the fridge stocked and cook for yourself — all whilst juggling a job or college.
It’s a big learning curve for any young person. But it can be even harder when you’re a young person leaving care.
If it seems tough, don't worry. We're here to help.
Across the UK, we have a wide range of incredible teams who can help. Find a specific support service near you here.
When do I have to leave care?
In England and Wales, you don’t have to leave care until you’re 18. But some young people can leave as early as 16.
If you are planning on leaving care early, make sure it is the right choice for you as living by yourself can be a big change.
Support for care leavers
Just because you are leaving care, it doesn’t mean you’ll be on your own.
We can help you:
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find somewhere to live, including supported lodgings
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learn independent living skills and manage your money
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continue with education
Need to access a service?
Choose from the range of support and services available to you and read about your entitlements below.
Financial support
As a care-experienced young person, you may be entitled to financial support to help your education, training and employment, or for necessities such as food, transport and clothing.
Employment, training and skills
Whether you want to stay in education, boost your employability skills or find a job, there's support available to you.
Mental health support
We can all feel sad, anxious or low from time to time. But you don't have to deal with it alone. Find mental health support near you.
Accommodation
Everyone deserves somewhere safe and stable to call home. Explore where you could live and find support to help you live independently.
Supported lodgings for young people leaving care
Supported lodgings are when people and families (sometimes called “hosts”) offer to rent a room to a young person leaving care.
Pathway plans and personal advisors
Leaving care can be a big leap. But there should be a plan in place to make it a bit easier.
Heard and Not Seen
We believe that young people like you deserve to have a voice. That’s why we created our podcast called Heard and Not Seen.
In season 2, we heard the incredible journeys of care-experienced young people in Plymouth and learned how they’re rallying together to tackle real-life issues like loneliness and isolation.
