What support should I get as a former relevant care leaver?
If you are a ‘former relevant’ care leaver, this usually means you are 18 or older and you were in care when you were 16 or 17.
Turning 18 doesn’t mean support suddenly stops. You should still get help – you’re not expected to figure everything out on your own. The local authority still has a duty to support you as you move into adult life.
You should have someone who stays in touch with you and helps you with things like:
- finding and keeping a safe place to live
- managing money and everyday living
- staying in education, training or work
- looking after your health and wellbeing
- making plans for your future
You should also be supported by adults who listen to you, respect your choices, and help you work towards your goals.
In this section, you can find out about the support you should still be getting and how to access help if you need it.
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Aged 18–20
Find out what care leaver support you have the right to if you're aged 18 to 20.
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Aged 21–24
If you’re aged 21 to 24 and were in care or looked after by a local authority in England:
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Over 25 (what support may still be available / where to go next)
On your 25th birthday, most care leaver support stops, but there’s still help available.