Qualifying Care Leaver
Find out what you are entitled to as a qualifying care leaver
You are a Qualifying Care Leaver if you…
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- are aged between 16 and 21 years old (or 25 years old if you are still in full-time education).
- left care on or after your 16th birthday and spent less than 13 weeks (in care) since your 14th birthday.
- are aged between 16 and 21 years old and (being cared for) under a special guardianship order.
- were looked after immediately before being placed with your special guardian.
- left care and returned home for more than 6 months before turning 18yrs.
It is important to know as this determines what support you are entitled to.
Available Support as a Qualifying Care Leaver
- You are entitled to advice and assistance from the Local Authority.
- A ‘needs assessment’ looks at your circumstances and situation to identify what support you require.
- Your LA can support you with: your education, such as study expenses and accommodation during the holidays, and can help you with your housing and health in exceptional circumstances.
- As a Qualifying Care Leaver YOU ARE NOT entitled to a Pathway Plan or Personal Adviser.
Your views
You are entitled to make a complaint. All Local Authorities have complaints procedures they must follow, to ensure all complaints are looked into in a fair and considered way.
Housing and Finance
- Once you are over 18, you are usually financially responsible for your accommodation and day-to-day living costs.
- If you are aged 18, 19 or 20, spent at least one day in care since the age of 16 and are homeless, you will automatically have a priority need when applying as homeless.
- If you are 21 or over, you may still have a priority need when applying as homeless. For example, if you have mental or physical health needs, or if you are deemed as being ‘vulnerable’ as a result of time spent in care.
Education, Work and Training
- Your Local Authority should provide or pay for accommodation during college or university holidays if you are studying away from home.
- Your Local Authority may provide you with a grant to support you in accessing education, work or training.
