Leaving care (Local Offer for Care Leavers)

At South Tyneside we are always here to support our young people, both when you leave care and after you turn 25. 

Our leaving care service operates on an 'opt out' rather than 'opt in' basis.

This means we are regularly in contact with almost all of our young people after their 18^th birthday.

We also make sure we are available for young people after they turn 25 years old.

Here are some examples of how our service continues beyond age 25:

• We offer an 'open door' policy that allows young people to return to use the Wi-Fi, phones or printers.
• Our opportunities broker helps young people write their CV and supports with employment issues. 
• We offer places at engagement events and activities where possible. For example, we have welcomed young people aged 25 years old to Sunday lunch club, Christmas dinner, and cooking sessions.
• Our annual celebration event includes those who have passed 25 years old. 
• We offer places on our care leaver residential trip to the Lake District to those who are over 25 years old. 
• Our care experienced sessional pool provides employment and engagement opportunities to those up to and over 25 years old. 

In addition, our personal advisers regularly stay in touch with young people after their 25^th birthday, including visiting those with limited support or facing difficulties.