Looked after children becoming independent
How the council supports former looked after children so that they can live as independent adults.
The council retains a level of responsibility for former looked after children until they reach the age of 21 (or up to 24 if they are in full-time education). It aims to support them into adulthood in such a way that their independence level increases as they acquire the knowledge and skills they need to be able to access services and resources for themselves, and to exercise their rights and responsibilities as independent adults.
Every 16 and 17 year old who has been looked after by the council for 13 weeks or more after the age of 14 is required to have a 'pathway plan' and a 'personal advisor'. This applies even if they have returned to live with their family after being looked after.
The 'pathway plan' sets out the way that the council and partner organisations in the independent or voluntary sector propose to support the needs of the young person during their transition to independence. The plan should address the young person's education or training needs, employment and accommodation.
There is also information about leaving care on: www.gov.uk/leaving foster or local authority care (opens new window).
The Children's Commissioner for Wales 'MyPlanner app' is designed to help and advise young people in care and care leavers as they think about leaving care, and make the transition from care to independent living. It contains information on rights, financial help, a budget calculator, and an updated independent living section with tasty recipes and cleaning tips.