Leaving care (Local Offer for Care Leavers)

We know how important making friends and developing relationships is to your overall wellbeing.

Young people who have experienced care tell us that, above all else, relationships matter most.

As well as support from a social worker or personal adviser, we may be able to offer you practical and emotional support, including:

• Support from the team
  You can get support 5 days per week from the Leaving Care team and personal advisors if you need help or feel worried. On an evening and weekends you can contact our Out of Hours team on 0191 456 2093.
• Keeping in touch with people who are special to you
  We can help you to keep in contact, or get back in touch with people special to you. This could be people who cared for you in the past, like former foster carers, social workers and Independent Reviewing Officers (IROs).
• Groups and activities
  We will give you information about regular groups where you can meet other care leavers and young people.
• LGBTQ+
  Find out more about our upcoming LGBTQ+ support group, as well as local and national LGBTQ+ services.
• Peer mentors
  Peer mentors are young people who have experienced care. They understand what it is like going into and leaving care, and the issues you may be facing. We can link you in with a peer mentor, so you have someone to talk to who understands what you are experiencing, and to make sure you don't feel isolated or lonely.
• Bringing someone with you to events
  We know that you may not wish to attend celebration events, social evenings and leisure activities on your own. You can bring a friend, carer, family member to any event that is marked as 'Plus One'.