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  83                       Warrington Children's Services Procedures Manual
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 136               <h1>
 136                 Leaving Care and Transition
 136               </h1>
 141               <div class="well">
 142                 <p class="bold">
 142                   SCOPE OF THIS CHAPTER
 143                 </p>
 144                 <p>
 144                   These procedures apply to young people who are or have been in care and are entitled to
                       support after their 16th birthday.
 144                 </p>
 145                 <p>
 145                   There are 3 categories of those leaving care all of whom are entitled to support after their
                       16th birthday. The categories are Eligible, Relevant, and Former Relevant.
 145                 </p>
 146                 <p>
 146                   These procedures also refer to Qualifying Young People who may receive support, advice and
                       assistance after their 16th birthday.
 146                 </p>
 147                 <p class="bold">
 147                   RELATED GUIDANCE
 147                 </p>
 148                 <p>
 148                   <a
                       href="https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/397649/CA198
                       9_Transitions_guidance.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
 148                     Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations - Volume 3: Planning Transition to Adulthood
                         for Care Leavers (revised January 2015)
 148                   </a>
 148                 </p>
 149                 <p>
 149                   <a
                       href="http://www.education.gov.uk/childrenandyoungpeople/families/childrenincare/a00216209/c
                       are-leavers-data-pack" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
 149                     Care Leavers' Charter
 149                   </a>
 149                 </p>
 150                 <p>
 150                   <a
                       href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/extending-personal-adviser-support-to-age-2
                       5" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
 150                     Extending Personal Adviser Support to All Care Leavers to Age 25: Statutory Guidance for
                         Local Authorities (February 2018)
 150                   </a>
 150                 </p>
 151                 <p>
 151                   <a
                       href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/applying-corporate-parenting-principles-to-
                       looked-after-children-and-care-leavers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
 151                     Applying Corporate Parenting Principles to Looked-after Children and Care Leavers -
                         Statutory Guidance for Local Authorities (February 2018)
 151                   </a>
 151                 </p>
 152                 <p>
 152                   <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/local-offer-guidance" target="_blank"
                       rel="noopener">
 152                     Local Offer Guidance: Guidance for Local Authorities
 152                   </a>
 152                 </p>
 153                 <p class="bold">
 153                   RELATED LOCAL GUIDANCE
 153                 </p>
 154                 <p >
 154                   <a
                       href="https://www.mylifewarrington.co.uk/kb5/warrington/directory/directory.page?directorych
                       annel=5_26" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
 154                     Warrington's Local Offer for Care Leavers
 154                   </a>
 154                 </p>
 155                 <p class="bold">
 155                   RELATED CHAPTER
 155                 </p>
 156                 <a
                     href="https://www.warrington.gov.uk/sites/default/files/2019-09/staying_put_policy_po122.pdf
                     " target="_blank" rel="noopener">
 156                   Staying Put Policy
 156                 </a>
 157               </div>
 164               <div class="section">
 165                 <h2 id="introduction">
 165                   1. Introduction
 165                 </h2>
 166                 <p>
 166                   The Children and Social Work Act 2017 introduced 3 new provisions:
 166                 </p>
 167                 <ol>
 168                   <li>
 168                     A duty on local authorities which requires them to offer
 168                     <span class="bold">
 168                       Personal Adviser
 168                     </span>
 168                     support to all care leavers towards whom the local authority had duties under section 23C
                         of the Children Act 1989, up to age 25 - irrespective of whether they are engaged in
                         education or training. This includes care leavers who return to the local authority at any
                         point after the age of 21 up to age 25 and request such support. (Under previous
                         legislation, local authorities were required to only provide care leavers with support
                         from a Personal Adviser until they reached age 21, with that support continuing up to age
                         25 if a care leaver was engaged in education or training. However, this support was not
                         available to care leavers aged over 21 who were not in education, training or employment);
 168                   </li>
 169                   <li>
 169                     A duty on local authorities to consult on and then publish their '
 169                     <span class="bold">
 169                       local offer
 169                     </span>
 169                     ' for care leavers, which sets out both care leavers' legal entitlements and the
                         additional discretionary support that the local authority provides; and
 169                   </li>
 170                   <li>
 170                     A duty on local authorities which requires them to have regard to seven '
 170                     <span class="bold">
 170                       corporate parenting principles
 170                     </span>
 170                     ', that will guide the way in which the local authority provides its services to children
                         in care and care leavers.
 170                   </li>
 171                 </ol>
 172                 <p>
 172                   These are specific requirements in addition to the existing provisions relating to support
                       for care leavers. The Children and Social Work Act does
 172                   <span class="bold">
 172                     not
 172                   </span>
 172                   extend
 172                   <span class="bold">
 172                     all care leaver support to age 25
 172                   </span>
 172                   .
 172                 </p>
 173                 <p>
 173                   The duty that extends Personal Adviser support (where requested) to all care leavers means
                       that the local authority continues to exercise functions in respect of care leavers to age
                       25 and should therefore apply the corporate parenting principles when exercising those
                       functions.
 173                 </p>
 174                 <p>
 174                   The ultimate aim of leaving care services is to support care leavers so that they can live
                       successful independent lives. Each care leaver will reach that point at a different age and
                       there should be no assumption that the duty means that all care leavers will require
                       statutory support until the age of 25.
 174                 </p>
 175                 <p>
 175                   The duty therefore means that local authorities do not necessarily need to provide the same
                       level of support to care leavers aged 21 to 25 as it does for those aged 18-20. The duty
                       does however enable local authorities to respond positively to requests for support from
                       care leavers aged 21-25 who may be continuing to struggle with the transition to
                       independence and adult life.
 175                 </p>
 176               </div>
 177               <div class="section1">
 177               </div>
 183               <div class="section">
 183                 <h2 id="definitions">
 183                   2. Definitions
 184                 </h2>
 185                 <table class="table" title="Definitions">
 186                   <tr>
 187                     <td>
 187                       &nbsp;
 187                     </td>
 188                     <td>
 188                       <p class="bold">
 188                         Eligible Young People
 188                       </p>
 189                       <p>
 189                         They are aged 16 or 17, have been a Child in Care for a period or periods totalling at
                             least 13 weeks starting after their 14th birthday and ending at least 1 day after
                             their 16th birthday, and are still in care. (This total does not include a series of
                             pre-planned short-term placements of up to 4 weeks where the child has returned to the
                             parent). There is a duty to support these young people up to the age of 18, wherever
                             they are living.
 189                       </p>
 190                       <p>
 190                         The statutory definition and requirements to undertake a needs assessment, prepare a
                             Pathway Plan, keep the Pathway Plan under review and appoint a Personal Adviser are
                             covered by Regulations 42, 43 and 44 of the Care Planning, Placement and Case Review
                             (England) Regulations 2010.
 190                       </p>
 190                     </td>
 191                   </tr>
 192                   <tr>
 193                     <td>
 193                       &nbsp;
 193                     </td>
 194                     <td>
 194                       <p class="bold">
 194                         Relevant Young People
 194                       </p>
 195                       <p>
 195                         They are aged 16 or 17 and are no longer Children in Care, having previously been in
                             the category of Eligible Young Person when in care (that is, they have been a Child in
                             Care for a period, or periods, totalling at least 13 weeks starting after their 14th
                             birthday and ending at least 1 day after their 16th birthday). However, if after
                             leaving care, a young person returns home for a period of 6 months or more to be cared
                             for by a parent and the return home has been formally agreed as successful, they will
                             no longer be a &quot;Relevant Young Person&quot;.
 195                       </p>
 196                       <p>
 196                         A young person is also &quot;Relevant&quot; if, having been in care for 3 months or
                             more, they are then detained after their 16th birthday either in a hospital, remand
                             centre, young offenders' institution or secure training centre. There is a duty to
                             support Relevant Young People up to the age of 18, wherever they are living.
 196                       </p>
 197                       <p>
 197                         The statutory definition and requirements to stay in touch with the young person,
                             undertake a needs assessment (unless this was done when the young person was
                             'Eligible'), prepare and keep the Pathway Plan under review, appoint a Personal
                             Adviser (unless this was done when the young person was 'Eligible') and provide
                             accommodation and assistance to meet their needs in relation to education, training or
                             employment are covered by Regulations 4 to 9 of the Care Leavers (England) Regulations
                             2010.
 197                       </p>
 197                     </td>
 198                   </tr>
 199                   <tr>
 200                     <td>
 200                       &nbsp;
 200                     </td>
 201                     <td>
 201                       <p class="bold">
 201                         A Young Person Discharged from Being Looked After
 201                       </p>
 202                       <p>
 202                         Any decision to cease looking after a child aged 16 or 17 who is a Child in Care other
                             than by virtue of a Care Order, must be approved by the Director of Children's
                             Services. The Director must be satisfied that:
 202                       </p>
 203                       <ul>
 204                         <li>
 204                           The child's wishes and feelings have been ascertained and given due consideration;
 204                         </li>
 205                         <li>
 205                           The child's Independent Reviewing Officer has been consulted;
 205                         </li>
 206                         <li>
 206                           The child's relatives have been consulted, where appropriate.
 206                         </li>
 207                       </ul>
 207                     </td>
 208                   </tr>
 209                   <tr>
 210                     <td>
 210                       &nbsp;
 210                     </td>
 211                     <td>
 211                       <p class="bold">
 211                         Former Relevant Young People
 211                       </p>
 212                       <p>
 212                         They are aged 18 or above and have left care having been previously either
                             &quot;Eligible&quot;, &quot;Relevant&quot; or both. There is a duty to consider the
                             need to support these young people wherever they are living.
 212                       </p>
 213                       <p>
 213                         The statutory definition and requirements to stay in touch with the young person, keep
                             the Pathway Plan under review, continue the appointment of a Personal Adviser and
                             provide financial assistance near where the young person is employed or seeking
                             employment/to enable the young person to pursue education or training are covered by
                             Regulations 4 to 9 of the Care Leavers (England) Regulations 2010.
 213                       </p>
 214                       <p>
 214                         If the Former Relevant child pursues higher education in accordance with their Care
                             Plan, there is a duty to pay a higher education bursary.
 214                       </p>
 215                       <p>
 215                         To the extent that the Former Relevant child's welfare requires it, 'other
                             assistance' must be provided which may be in kind or, in exceptional circumstances, in
                             cash.
 215                       </p>
 216                       <p>
 216                         These duties continue until the former relevant child reaches 21 or, where the
                             child's Pathway Plan sets out a programme of education or training which extends
                             beyond their 21st birthday, they continue for so long as the child pursues that
                             programme.
 216                       </p>
 216                     </td>
 217                   </tr>
 218                   <tr>
 219                     <td>
 219                       &nbsp;
 219                     </td>
 220                     <td>
 220                       <p class="bold">
 220                         Former Relevant Children Pursuing Further Education or Training
 220                       </p>
 221                       <p>
 221                         Specific duties are placed upon the local authority in respect of Former Relevant
                             children who inform the local authority that they are pursuing, or intend to pursue, a
                             programme of education or training. The local authority must:
 221                       </p>
 222                       <ul>
 223                         <li>
 223                           Carry out an assessment of the needs of the Former Relevant child with a view to
                               determining what assistance (if any) it would be appropriate for the local authority
                               to provide;
 223                         </li>
 224                         <li>
 224                           Prepare a Pathway Plan;
 224                         </li>
 225                         <li>
 225                           To the extent that the Former Relevant child's educational or training needs require
                               it, provide financial assistance by:
 226                           <ul>
 227                             <li>
 227                               Contributing to living expenses; or
 227                             </li>
 228                             <li>
 228                               Making a grant to meet expenses connected with the education and training.
 228                             </li>
 229                           </ul>
 230                         </li>
 231                       </ul>
 232                       <p>
 232                         These duties continue up to the Former Relevant child's 25th birthday.
 232                       </p>
 233                       <p>
 233                         In each case where a care leaver requests this support, the Local Authority will need
                             to assess the appropriateness of the course and how it will help the young person to
                             achieve their ambitions. The extent of the practical and financial assistance provided
                             will reflect the type of course, whether full - or part-time, and the young
                             person's existing income.
 233                       </p>
 233                     </td>
 234                   </tr>
 235                   <tr>
 236                     <td>
 236                       &nbsp;
 236                     </td>
 237                     <td>
 237                       <p class="bold">
 237                         Qualifying Young People
 237                       </p>
 238                       <p>
 238                         They are aged 16 and over and under the age of 21, and:
 238                       </p>
 239                       <ul>
 240                         <li>
 240                           Subject to a Special Guardianship Order (or were when they reached 18) and were a
                               Child in Care immediately before the making of that Order;
 240                         </li>
 241                         <li>
 241                           At any time after 16 (but whilst still a child), were (but no longer are) a Child in
                               Care, accommodated or fostered.
 241                         </li>
 242                       </ul>
 243                       <p>
 243                         'Looked after accommodated or fostered' includes:
 243                       </p>
 244                       <ul>
 245                         <li>
 245                           Looked After by a local authority;
 245                         </li>
 246                         <li>
 246                           Accommodated by or on behalf of a voluntary organisation;
 246                         </li>
 247                         <li>
 247                           Accommodated in a private children's home;
 247                         </li>
 248                         <li>
 248                           Accommodated for a consecutive period of at least 3 months (including even before
                               the child was 16) by a Health Authority, CCG or Local Authority (providing
                               education), in:
 249                           <ul>
 250                             <li>
 250                               A care home;
 250                             </li>
 251                             <li>
 251                               Independent hospital;
 251                             </li>
 252                             <li>
 252                               National Health Service trust or Foundation Trust.
 252                             </li>
 253                           </ul>
 254                         </li>
 255                         <li>
 255                           Privately Fostered - but do not qualify as Eligible, Relevant or Former Relevant.
 256                         </li>
 257                       </ul>
 258                       <p>
 258                         Where a local authority looked after, accommodated or fostered a young person, and
                             they are deemed as Qualifying for advice and assistance, the local authority has a
                             duty to take reasonable steps to contact them with a view to advising and assisting
                             them.
 258                       </p>
 259                       <p>
 259                         This includes financial assistance in relation to expenses incurred in living near the
                             place where the young person is, will be, or is seeking work or where they will be
                             receiving education or training; or where the person is in full time further or higher
                             education, is under the age of 25 and qualifies for advice and assistance, or would
                             have done if they were under 21, assistance in relation to securing vacation
                             accommodation (see
 259                         <a href="#qualify">
 259                           Section 11, Qualifying Young People
 259                         </a>
 259                         ).
 259                       </p>
 259                     </td>
 260                   </tr>
 261                 </table>
 262               </div>
 263               <div class="section1">
 263               </div>
 269               <div class="section">
 270                 <h2 id="expectations">
 270                   3. Expectations and Corporate Parenting
 270                 </h2>
 271                 <h3>
 271                   3.1 Expectations
 271                 </h3>
 272                 <p>
 272                   The aim of the Leaving Care Services is to support care leavers so that they can live
                       successful independent lives. Each care leaver will reach that point at a different age and
                       there should be no assumption that all care leavers will require statutory support until up
                       to age 25.
 272                 </p>
 273                 <p>
 273                   Although each young person will be different, it would be expected that support for care
                       leavers will taper away over time, in recognition of their growing maturity and
                       independence:
 273                 </p>
 274                 <ul>
 275                   <li>
 275                     For care leavers aged 16 and 17, the local authority is under an absolute duty to
                         accommodate them, which does not apply once the young person reaches age 18;
 275                   </li>
 276                   <li>
 276                     For care leavers aged 18 and up to 21, there is a proactive duty on the local authority to
                         keep in touch with care leavers (section 23C(2) of the Children Act 1989 Act), which does
                         not apply to care leavers aged 21 or over, irrespective of whether those young people are
                         already entitled to support because they are in education or training, or those who are
                         covered by the new duty. Although there is no requirement to proactively keep in touch
                         with all young people aged over 21 up to age 25 throughout the year, the duty (under the
                         Children and Social Work Act 2017) requires local authorities to make care leavers aware
                         that they can continue to request Personal Adviser support as soon as possible after they
                         turn 21; and on at least an annual basis thereafter. This applies regardless of whether a
                         care leaver may have earlier declined the offer of Personal Adviser support. This
                         requirement recognises that care leavers' circumstances may change and confirms that all
                         care leavers are entitled to Personal Adviser support at any time up to age 25. Sending a
                         birthday card to care leavers, for example, presents an ideal opportunity to remind the
                         young person of their entitlement to Personal Adviser support if they need it, through to
                         age 25;
 276                   </li>
 277                   <li>
 277                     For care leavers aged 21 or over, the duties introduced through the Children and Social
                         Work Act 2017 - to assess care leavers' needs, and develop and keep under review a Pathway
                         Plan - apply only where the young person requests support.
 277                   </li>
 278                 </ul>
 279                 <h3>
 279                   3.2 Corporate Parenting
 279                 </h3>
 280                 <p>
 280                   The corporate parenting principles apply only to local authorities. Directors of
                       Children's Services and Lead Members for Children should nevertheless ensure that relevant
                       partners understand how they can assist local authorities and apply the principles in
                       relation to the services those partners may provide. 'Relevant partners' include local
                       policing bodies and Chief Officers of Police, local probation boards and probation services,
                       youth offending teams, clinical commissioning groups, NHS England, schools and educational
                       institutions.
 280                 </p>
 281                 <p>
 281                   See also:
 281                   <a
                       href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_
                       data/file/705242/Provision_of_accommodation_for_16_and_17_year_olds_who_may_be_homeless.pdf
                       " target="_blank" rel="noopener">
 281                     DfE, Prevention of Homelessness and Provision of Accommodation for 16 and 17 Year Old
                         Young People Who May be Homeless and/or Require Accommodation
 281                   </a>
 281                   .
 281                 </p>
 282                 <h4>
 282                   3.2.1 Corporate Parenting Principles
 282                 </h4>
 283                 <p>
 283                   The Children and Social Work Act 2017 set out seven principles for Corporate Parenting:
 283                 </p>
 284                 <ul>
 285                   <li>
 285                     To act in the best interests, and promote the physical and mental health and well-being,
                         of those children and young people;
 285                   </li>
 286                   <li>
 286                     To encourage those children and young people to express their views, wishes and feelings;
 286                   </li>
 287                   <li>
 287                     To take into account the views, wishes and feelings of those children and young people;
 287                   </li>
 288                   <li>
 288                     To help those children and young people gain access to, and make the best use of, services
                         provided by the local authority and its relevant partners;
 288                   </li>
 289                   <li>
 289                     To promote high aspirations, and seek to secure the best outcomes, for those children and
                         young people;
 289                   </li>
 290                   <li>
 290                     For those children and young people to be safe, and for stability in their home lives,
                         relationships and education or work; and
 290                   </li>
 291                   <li>
 291                     To prepare those children and young people for adulthood and independent living.
 291                   </li>
 292                 </ul>
 293                 <p>
 293                   See:
 293                   <a
                       href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/applying-corporate-parenting-principles-to-
                       looked-after-children-and-care-leavers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
 293                     Applying Corporate Parenting Principles to Looked-after Children and Care Leavers -
                         Statutory Guidance for Local Authorities (February 2018)
 293                   </a>
 293                   .
 293                 </p>
 294               </div>
 295               <div class="section1">
 295               </div>
 301               <div class="section">
 302                 <h2 id="local_offer">
 302                   4. Local Offer
 302                 </h2>
 303                 <p>
 303                   All local authorities must publish up-to-date information about the services it offers for
                       care leavers and other services which may assist care leavers in, or preparing for,
                       adulthood and independent living. The local offer should cover health and well-being;
                       relationships; education and training; employment; accommodation; participation in society.
                       This information should also include how relevant services that can be accessed by its
                       partner agencies and include District Councils where relevant.
 303                 </p>
 304                 <p>
 304                   In Warrington, we are fully committed to providing care leavers with the help they need to
                       make the transition to adult life. In our 'Local Offer' there is information about the
                       support care leavers can expect from the council and partner agencies. There are also links
                       to local and national services who can offer advice and support, depending on individual
                       needs. More information with regard to the 'Local Offer' - see:
 304                   <a
                       href="https://www.mylifewarrington.co.uk/kb5/warrington/directory/directory.page?directorych
                       annel=5_26" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
 304                     Warrington's Local Offer for Care Leavers
 304                   </a>
 304                   .
 304                 </p>
 305               </div>
 306               <div class="section1">
 306               </div>
 312               <div class="section">
 312                 <h2 id="leaving_care">
 312                   5. Leaving Care Assessment of Needs
 312                 </h2>
 313                 <p>
 313                   All young people - Eligible, Relevant or Former Relevant - must receive a multi-agency
                       assessment of their needs as to the advice, assistance and support they will need when
                       leaving care.
 313                 </p>
 314                 <p>
 314                   The young person's social worker will be responsible for coordinating the Needs Assessment.
 314                 </p>
 315                 <p>
 315                   This assessment should be completed no more than 3 months after the young person's 16th
                       birthday or after the young person becomes Eligible or Relevant if this is later. The
                       timetable must take account of any forthcoming exams and avoid disrupting the young
                       person's preparation for them.
 315                 </p>
 316                 <p>
 316                   The young person's Care Plan together with information from the most recent Assessment will
                       form the basis of the Needs Assessment.
 316                 </p>
 317                 <p>
 317                   The young person's social worker will be responsible for recording the assessment
                       information and conclusions as well as the outcome of any meetings held. The young person
                       must be invited to any meetings held in connection with the assessment.
 317                 </p>
 318                 <p>
 318                   The Needs Assessment should take account of the views of the following:
 318                 </p>
 319                 <ol style="list-style-type:lower-alpha">
 320                   <li>
 320                     The young person;
 320                   </li>
 321                   <li>
 321                     The parents;
 321                   </li>
 322                   <li>
 322                     The current carer;
 322                   </li>
 323                   <li>
 323                     The school/college and the education service;
 323                   </li>
 324                   <li>
 324                     Any Independent Visitor;
 324                   </li>
 325                   <li>
 325                     Any person providing health care or treatment for the young person;
 325                   </li>
 326                   <li>
 326                     The Personal Adviser;
 326                   </li>
 327                   <li>
 327                     Any other relevant person including, in the case of a young person with special needs, a
                         representative from Adult Services;
 327                   </li>
 328                   <li>
 328                     A care leaver's needs in relation to their status as a victim of trafficking or an
                         unaccompanied asylum seeking child must be considered when the local authority is
                         preparing an assessment of needs. Also, to require that, where a child is a victim of
                         trafficking or an unaccompanied asylum seeking child, the local authority must consider
                         whether their related needs are being met when reviewing the Pathway Plan (see amended
                         Care Leavers (England) Regulations 2010).
 328                   </li>
 329                 </ol>
 330                 <p>
 330                   A decision not to include significant people must be recorded in the young person's file.
 330                 </p>
 331                 <p>
 331                   Young people with particular language or communication needs should be provided throughout
                       the process with appropriate interpretation, translation or advocacy support.
 331                 </p>
 332                 <p>
 332                   Where the young person refuses to engage in the assessment process, this should be recorded,
                       together with any actions taken to ascertain the young person's views.
 332                 </p>
 333                 <p>
 333                   All parties, including the social worker's manager, should sign the completed Needs
                       Assessment Record. The young person should be provided with a copy in a format that is
                       accessible to them within 2 weeks. The social worker is responsible for ensuring that the
                       outcome of the assessment is explained to the young person.
 333                 </p>
 334                 <p>
 334                   The Needs Assessment will inform the development of a Pathway Plan which will be based on
                       and include the young person's Care Plan.
 334                 </p>
 335                 <p>
 335                   Where the young person continues to be a Child in Care, the Placement Plan should describe
                       what arrangements have been made within the placement to support the Pathway Plan.
 335                 </p>
 336                 <p>
 336                   When carrying out an assessment of needs, the local authority must determine whether it
                       would be appropriate to provide advice, assistance and support to facilitate a Staying Put
                       arrangement. Where they determine that it would be appropriate, and where the child and the
                       local authority foster parent wish to make a Staying Put arrangement, then the local
                       authority must provide such advice, assistance and support to facilitate a Staying Put
                       arrangement. For further information see the
 336                   <a
                       href="https://www.warrington.gov.uk/sites/default/files/2019-09/staying_put_policy_po122.pdf
                       " target="_blank" rel="noopener">
 336                     Staying Put Policy
 336                   </a>
 336                   .
 336                 </p>
 337                 <h3>
 337                   5.1 Needs Assessment for those aged 21 and up to 25
 337                 </h3>
 338                 <p>
 338                   The government guidance
 338                   <a
                       href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/extending-personal-adviser-support-to-age-2
                       5" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
 338                     Extending Personal Adviser Support to All Care Leavers to Age 25: Statutory Guidance for
                         Local Authorities (February 2018)
 338                   </a>
 338                   highlights that at this stage of their lives young adults needs will vary considerably. Some
                       may need considerable continuing support with transition, whilst others will not take up the
                       offer for continuing support. Therefore there should be a proportionate response, with some
                       benefitting from a continued and full assessment of needs, whilst others who seek help for
                       specific issues have a more focussed assessment which responds to their particular need and
                       level of requested help (see
 338                   <a href="#twenty1_5">
 338                     Section 6.1, Pathway Planning for those Aged 21 and up to 25
 338                   </a>
 338                   ).
 338                 </p>
 339                 <p>
 339                   For further information see
 339                   <a
                       href="https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/397649/CA198
                       9_Transitions_guidance.pdf#page=21" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
 339                     Appendix 1: Needs Assessment and Content of Pathway Plans for Relevant and Former Relevant
                         Children
 339                   </a>
 339                   .
 339                 </p>
 340               </div>
 341               <div class="section1">
 341               </div>
 347               <div class="section">
 347                 <h2 id="pathway">
 347                   6. Pathway Planning
 347                 </h2>
 348                 <p>
 348                   All young people will have a Pathway Plan in place within 3 months of becoming Eligible and,
                       wherever possible, a Pathway Plan will be in place by the young person's 16th birthday.
 348                 </p>
 349                 <p>
 349                   The Pathway Plan will be based on and include a young person's Care Plan and any Personal
                       Education Plan or Careers advice service will inform and complement the Pathway Plan.
 349                 </p>
 350                 <p>
 350                   Each young person will be central to drawing up their own Pathway Plan setting the goals and
                       identifying how the local authority will help meet them, including any services being
                       provided in respect of the young person's disability or needs arising from being in custody
                       or as a result of entering the country as an unaccompanied asylum seeker. It should be
                       written in a way that meets the needs of the young person, capturing their aspirations and
                       key messages. Young people with particular language or communication needs should be
                       provided throughout the process with appropriate interpretation, translation or advocacy
                       support.
 350                 </p>
 351                 <p>
 351                   The Pathway Plan must clearly identify the roles of each person who has a part to play in
                       supporting the care leaver.
 351                 </p>
 352                 <p>
 352                   The Pathway Plan should also include:
 352                 </p>
 353                 <ul>
 354                   <li>
 354                     The plan for the young person's continuing education or training when they cease to be a
                         Child in Care - where the young person is no longer of statutory school age, the Pathway
                         Plan may need to incorporate the goals and actions that were previously included in the
                         PEP;
 354                   </li>
 355                   <li>
 355                     How the Responsible Local Authority will assist the young person in obtaining employment
                         or other purposeful activity or occupation, taking into account their aspirations, skills
                         and educational potential to improve their chance of employability;
 355                   </li>
 356                   <li>
 356                     The financial support to be provided to enable the young person to meet accommodation and
                         maintenance costs; taking into account their financial capabilities and money-management
                         capacity, along with strategies to develop skills in this area;
 356                   </li>
 357                   <li>
 357                     The nature and level of contact and personal support to be provided, and by whom, to the
                         young person;
 357                   </li>
 358                   <li>
 358                     Details of the accommodation the young person is to occupy (including an assessment of its
                         suitability in the light of the young person's needs, recording the considerations taken
                         into account in assessing that suitability);
 358                   </li>
 359                   <li>
 359                     Details of the arrangements made by the Responsible Local Authority to meet the young
                         person's needs in relation to their identity, with particular regard to their religious
                         persuasion, racial origin and cultural and linguistic background.
 359                   </li>
 360                 </ul>
 361                 <p>
 361                   The Pathway Plan must address in particular:
 361                 </p>
 362                 <ul>
 363                   <li>
 363                     The young person's health and development building on the information included in the
                         young person's Health Care Plan;
 363                   </li>
 364                   <li>
 364                     Education, training and employment. The Personal Education Plan (PEP) should continue to
                         be maintained while the young person continues to receive full or part-time education.
                         Information within the PEP will feed directly into the Pathway Plan. Pathway Plans must
                         have an explicit focus on career planning, taking into account the young person's
                         aspirations, skills, and educational potential;
 364                   </li>
 365                   <li>
 365                     Contact with the young person's parents, wider family including siblings and friends and
                         the capacity of this network to encourage the young person and enable them to make a
                         positive transition to adulthood;
 365                   </li>
 366                   <li>
 366                     The young person's financial capabilities and money management capacity, along with
                         strategies to develop the young person's skills in this area.
 366                   </li>
 367                 </ul>
 368                 <p>
 368                   The Pathway Plan must identify contingency arrangements that will come into effect to
                       support the young person if, for whatever reason, the planned arrangements are not realised.
 368                 </p>
 369                 <p>
 369                   The local authority should have a flexible approach to supporting young people; it should be
                       borne in mind that it has a duty to accept young people aged 16 and 17 years back in to care
                       if a young person's decision to move into semi-independent accommodation, leave care or
                       decline leaving care services is then identified as premature.
 369                 </p>
 370                 <p>
 370                   A Financial Summary should be attached to the Plan, at the latest from the point where the
                       young person leaves care.
 370                 </p>
 371                 <p>
 371                   Where a transfer from Children's to Adult Services will be required, the Plan should specify
                       who has responsibility for giving notice to Adult Services and liaising with them to ensure
                       a smooth transition.
 371                 </p>
 372                 <p>
 372                   The
 372                   <a href="pr_desg_man.html#leave">
 372                     Designated Manager (Leaving Care)
 372                   </a>
 372                   should approve and sign the Pathway Plan.
 372                 </p>
 373                 <p>
 373                   On completion and approval of the Pathway Plan, all parties involved including the young
                       person should sign it.
 373                 </p>
 374                 <p>
 374                   A copy of the Financial Summary should be forwarded to the Finance Section who will process
                       the necessary weekly payments.
 374                 </p>
 375                 <p>
 375                   The young person will be provided with a copy of the most up to date Pathway Plan and the
                       contents must be explained.
 375                 </p>
 376                 <p>
 376                   Where agencies are contributing to the delivery of an individual young person's Pathway Plan
                       they should be provided with a copy of the relevant extract from the Plan relating to their
                       contribution.
 376                 </p>
 377                 <p>
 377                   Information from the Pathway Plan should not be shared with other agencies or individuals
                       without the young person's consent.
 377                 </p>
 378                 <h3 id="twenty1_5">
 378                   6.1 Pathway Planning for those Aged 21 and up to 25
 378                 </h3>
 379                 <p>
 379                   The local authority is required to offer all care leavers a Personal Adviser up to the age
                       25 and apply the corporate parenting principles when continuing support is agreed or
                       requested.
 379                 </p>
 380                 <p>
 380                   However, the duty at this stage of a young adult's life is seen as different from the age 18
                       - 20 in that it enables the local authority to offer support to some individuals who may
                       need continuing support in the transition process. The level of support and intervention
                       will vary considerably; many at this stage of their lives will not require, or want, ongoing
                       help and will not have a Pathway Plan. However, for others:
 380                 </p>
 381                 <ul>
 382                   <li>
 382                     There may be multiple issues which will require a Pathway Plan being fully completed and
                         regular contacts, planning/co-ordinating meetings with partner agencies, etc.
 382                   </li>
 383                   <li>
 383                     Care leavers may have single or specific issues where they require support and guidance,
                         e.g.
 384                     <ul>
 385                       <li>
 385                         Pregnancy or becoming a parent;
 385                       </li>
 386                       <li>
 386                         Release from custody;
 386                       </li>
 387                       <li>
 387                         Mental health issues;
 387                       </li>
 388                       <li>
 388                         Risk of homelessness;
 388                       </li>
 389                       <li>
 389                         Debt, including rent arrears;
 389                       </li>
 390                       <li>
 390                         For advice or guidance on commencing education or training;
 390                       </li>
 391                       <li>
 391                         For advice or support following experience of domestic or sexual violence/abuse.
 391                       </li>
 392                     </ul>
 393                   </li>
 394                 </ul>
 395                 <p>
 395                   Where care leavers require support with single or specific issues, the Pathway Plan should
                       be completed only in the relevant part that reflects the issues being dealt with.
 395                 </p>
 396                 <p>
 396                   See also
 396                   <a href="#educ_train">
 396                     Section 9, Education, Training and Employment
 396                   </a>
 396                   .
 396                 </p>
 397               </div>
 398               <div class="section1">
 398               </div>
 404               <div class="section">
 404                 <h2 id="reviews">
 404                   7. Reviews of Pathway Plans
 404                 </h2>
 405                 <p>
 405                   The Pathway Plan must be reviewed at least every 6 months for care leavers up to age 21.
                       Thereafter, until the care leaver reaches the age of 25, the issues that have arisen which
                       affect the care leaver will dictate how often Pathway Plans will need to be reviewed and
                       updated. However, as a minimum this should be at least every 6 months.
 405                 </p>
 406                 <p>
 406                   Reviews should take place more often if requested by the young person or the Personal
                       Adviser or where there has been a significant change in the young person's circumstances.
 406                 </p>
 407                 <p>
 407                   The purpose of the review is to check that the goals and milestones are still right and that
                       they are being met. All levels of support should be reviewed to ensure that they are
                       adequate and delivered according to plan.
 407                 </p>
 408                 <p>
 408                   For an Eligible Young Person, the date for the first review of the Pathway Plan will be set
                       to coincide with the young person's next Case Review after the Pathway Plan has been drawn
                       up.
 408                 </p>
 409                 <p>
 409                   For a Relevant Young Person, the date for the first review will, if possible, be set at the
                       last Case Review before the young person ceases to a Child in Care and in any case within 6
                       months of becoming a relevant young person.
 409                 </p>
 410                 <p>
 410                   For a Former Relevant Young Person, the date for the first review will take place within 6
                       months of the young person's 18th birthday.
 410                 </p>
 411                 <p>
 411                   Whilst the young person is Eligible their Independent Reviewing Officer will chair reviews
                       or support the young person to chair.
 411                 </p>
 412                 <p>
 412                   Otherwise, the Team Manager of the Leaving Care Service or their nominee will chair the
                       Pathway Plan reviews or support the young person to chair.
 412                 </p>
 413                 <p>
 413                   The review immediately prior to the young person's 18th birthday will agree how future
                       reviews will be conducted, including whether they will involve face to face meetings, and
                       this will be recorded by the Chairperson. In all cases, even when no formal review meetings
                       are held, the Team Manager of the Leaving Care Service will retain a monitoring role, at 6
                       monthly intervals, to check the progress of the Pathway Plan.
 413                 </p>
 414                 <p>
 414                   Other participants at reviews should include the young person, Personal Adviser, the social
                       worker (if the case is still allocated) and any other significant person.
 414                 </p>
 415                 <p>
 415                   The young person's expenses (travelling and subsistence) in attending the review will be met
                       by the local authority.
 415                 </p>
 416                 <p>
 416                   If the Relevant Young Person or Former Relevant Young Person moves to 'unregulated'
                       accommodation (i.e. accommodation that is not regulated/inspected by OFSTED), the Local
                       Authority must:
 416                 </p>
 417                 <ol style="list-style-type:lower-roman">
 418                   <li>
 418                     Arrange a review 28 days (or as soon as practicable thereafter) from the time the
                         accommodation is provided; and
 418                   </li>
 419                   <li>
 419                     Determine at what intervals (not exceeding 3 months) subsequent reviews will be carried
                         out;
 419                   </li>
 420                   <li>
 420                     Reviews should be brought forward where there is an assessed risk that a crisis may
                         develop in a young person's life, for example:
 421                     <ul>
 422                       <li>
 422                         Where a young person has been charged with an offence and there is a possibility of
                             their being sentenced to custody, which will risk losing their accommodation;
 422                       </li>
 423                       <li>
 423                         Where a young person is at risk of being evicted from their accommodation or otherwise
                             threatened with homelessness;
 423                       </li>
 424                       <li>
 424                         Where professionals are concerned about the parenting capacity of a 'Relevant' or
                             'Former Relevant' young person with there being a possibility that their own child may
                             need to be the subject of a multi-agency safeguarding plan;
 424                       </li>
 425                       <li>
 425                         Where a young person requests a review.
 425                       </li>
 426                     </ul>
 427                   </li>
 428                 </ol>
 429                 <p>
 429                   Matters to which the Local Authority is to have regard in determining suitability of
                       accommodation (under Schedule 2 to the Care Leavers Regulations 2010 and Schedule 6 of the
                       Care Planning, Placement and Case Review Regulations 2010):
 429                 </p>
 430                 <ol>
 431                   <li>
 431                     In respect of the accommodation:
 432                     <ol style="list-style-type:lower-alpha">
 433                       <li>
 433                         The facilities and services provided;
 433                       </li>
 434                       <li>
 434                         The state of repair;
 434                       </li>
 435                       <li>
 435                         The safety;
 435                       </li>
 436                       <li>
 436                         The location;
 436                       </li>
 437                       <li>
 437                         The support;
 437                       </li>
 438                       <li>
 438                         The tenancy status; and
 438                       </li>
 439                       <li>
 439                         The financial commitments involved for the relevant young person and their
                             affordability.
 439                       </li>
 440                     </ol>
 441                   </li>
 442                   <li>
 442                     In respect of the Relevant young person:
 443                     <ol style="list-style-type:lower-alpha">
 444                       <li>
 444                         Their views about the accommodation;
 444                       </li>
 445                       <li>
 445                         Their understanding of their rights and responsibilities in relation to the
                             accommodation; and
 445                       </li>
 446                       <li>
 446                         Their understanding of funding arrangements.
 446                       </li>
 447                     </ol>
 448                   </li>
 449                 </ol>
 450                 <p>
 450                   It is good practice for a review to be held within 28 days of any change in the care
                       leaver's accommodation.
 450                 </p>
 451 next issueprevious issueE620 The 'border' attribute is not allowed here:
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 452                   <tr>
 453                     <td class="table_row_even">
 453                       <p>
 453                         <span class="bold">
 453                           Note
 453                         </span>
 453                         : Bed and Breakfast Accommodation is not considered as suitable accommodation other
                             than in exceptional circumstances. On such occasions:
 453                       </p>
 454                       <ul>
 455                         <li>
 455                           The placement should be limited to 2 working days;
 455                         </li>
 456                         <li>
 456                           The Local Authority provides appropriate supervision and contact with the young
                               person.
 456                         </li>
 457                       </ul>
 458                       <span class="tiny_text">
 458                         7.12, DfE The Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations - Volume 3: Planning
                             Transition to Adulthood for Care Leavers (January 2015)
 458                       </span>
 458                     </td>
 459                   </tr>
 460                 </table>
 461                 <p>
 461                   Where a Relevant or Former Relevant Young Person enters custody, pathway planning must
                       continue. The young person must be visited on a regular basis and it is good practice for
                       the first visit to take place within 10 working days. The role must not be fulfilled by a
                       YOT worker. The Local Authority must liaise with the YOT or Probation Providers to support
                       the young person emotionally, practically and financially while in custody. A review of the
                       Pathway Plan should be carried out at least a month before the young person's release to
                       give sufficient time to plan for their resettlement, including identifying suitable
                       accommodation where the young person's placement had to be given up or has been lost and
                       identifying who will collect the young person and the sources of support after their
                       release.
 461                 </p>
 462                 <p>
 462                   In the event of a Relevant or Former Relevant Young Person breaking off contact and/or not
                       engaging with the agreed support and advice being offered, a review of the Pathway Plan may
                       take place by telephone, e-mail or letter, if agreed in advance by the Chairperson and the
                       Personal Adviser. In these circumstances the Personal Adviser will attempt to negotiate a
                       revised plan that is acceptable to all parties (see
 462                   <a href="#keeping">
 462                     Section 8.1, Keeping in Touch
 462                   </a>
 462                   ).
 462                 </p>
 463                 <p>
 463                   Where contact is lost, the emphasis of the Pathway Plan Review will switch to record how
                       attempts will be made to re-establish contact and these efforts will be reviewed within the
                       established system.
 463                 </p>
 464                 <p>
 464                   <span class="bold">
 464                     For those aged 21 and up to 25
 464                   </span>
 464                   the frequency of contact between Personal Advisers and care leavers will vary depending on
                       the nature of each individual's circumstances (see
 464                   <a href="#twenty1_5">
 464                     Section 6.1, Pathway Planning for those Aged 21 and up to 25
 464                   </a>
 464                   ).
 464                 </p>
 465                 Where a Pathway Plan is amended as a result of a review, the Personal Adviser will amend the
                     Plan. Any necessary approval to the amended financial arrangements will be sought from the
                     Designated Manager (Leaving Care). Once the changes are approved, the Personal Adviser will
                     send a copy of the amended Plan to the young person, the Chairperson and the Designated
                     Manager.
 465               </div>
 466               <div class="section1">
 466               </div>
 472               <div class="section">
 472                 <h2 id="pers_advis">
 472                   8. Personal Advisers
 474                 </h2>
 475                 <p>
 475                   The Personal Adviser acts as the young person's principal source of contact in any matter
                       relating to the Pathway Plan and is accountable for the effective implementation of the Plan
                       (see also
 475                   <a href="#keeping">
 475                     Section 8.1, Keeping in Touch
 475                   </a>
 475                   ). All care leavers (including those who live out of authority) should be made aware of
                       their entitlement to a Personal Adviser up to age 25.
 475                 </p>
 476                 <p>
 476                   The Personal Adviser will ensure the co-ordination of other agencies and individuals
                       identified in the Pathway Plan and 'act as a focal point' to make sure the young person has
                       access to the appropriate services, including those provisions to enable them to develop
                       some financial management capability.
 476                 </p>
 477                 <p>
 477                   The Personal Adviser is seen as a 'function' rather than a specific person and the local
                       authority should consider delegating it wholly or partially to the best person able to carry
                       out the role out (see
 477                   <a href="http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2010/2571/pdfs/uksi_20102571_en.pdf"
                       target="_blank" rel="noopener">
 477                     Part 3, Regulation 8 of The Care Leavers (England) Regulations 2010
 477                   </a>
 477                   ).
 477                 </p>
 478                 <p>
 478                   The Personal Adviser should be someone who is best able to engage with the young person and
                       motivate them to take up, and best make use of, the services that are available and
                       provided.
 478                 </p>
 479                 <p>
 479                   It would be good practice where possible and appropriate for the Personal Adviser to
                       maintain the same person from 18 years from when they were an Eligible or Relevant child.
                       However, this will not always be possible, although the Personal Adviser should have the
                       necessary skills and experience to carry out the function. The transfer of the role should
                       be undertaken in a planned and managed way.
 479                 </p>
 480                 <p>
 480                   When allocating a Personal Adviser to an individual young person, consideration must be
                       given to the wishes of the young person and to issues of gender, race, religion,
                       linguistics, disabilities and equal opportunities. The assessment of need and a judgment as
                       to who is most appropriate to fulfil the role of Personal Adviser will influence the choice
                       and allocation of worker.
 480                 </p>
 481 next issueprevious issueE620 The 'border' attribute is not allowed here:
The most common reasons for this error are the use of an old unsupported attribute, a new one which is not yet part of the specification being tested against, or the misuse of attributes for use with javascript. If the attribute is for use with AngularJS, then see the FAQ for more information. See the HTML Living Standard.                     <table class="table" title="When a care leaver moves to new accommodation" border="1">
 482                   <tr>
 483                     <td class="table_row_even">
 483                       <a id="leaver_moves">
 483                       </a>
 483                       When a care leaver moves to new accommodation, and the accommodation is unregulated /
                           comes under Section 23B and 24B of the Children Act 1989, the Personal Adviser must see
                           them at that accommodation:
 484                       <ul>
 486                         <li>
 486                           Within 7 days of the accommodation being provided;
 486                         </li>
 487                         <li>
 487                           Subsequently before the Pathway Plan is reviewed (see
 487                           <a href="#reviews">
 487                             Section 7, Reviews of Pathway Plans
 487                           </a>
 487                           );
 487                         </li>
 488                         <li>
 488                           At subsequent intervals of not more than 2 months.
 488                         </li>
 489                       </ul>
 490                     </td>
 491                   </tr>
 492                 </table>
 493                 <p>
 493                   When a care leaver moves to new accommodation, the Personal Adviser must see them at that
                       accommodation within 7 days of the move.
 493                 </p>
 494                 <p>
 494                   On each visit, the Personal Adviser must consider whether the accommodation continues to be
                       suitable for the young person.
 494                 </p>
 495                 <p>
 495                   The Personal Adviser must maintain a written record of their contacts with the young person,
                       monitoring the effectiveness of services in preparing the young person for a time when they
                       will move to greater independence or when they cease to be a Child in Care.
 495                 </p>
 496                 <p>
 496                   The Personal Adviser will take responsibility for initiating the review of the Pathway Plan
                       and for recording its outcomes.
 496                 </p>
 497                 <p>
 497                   Care leavers between the age of 21 and under 25 who, following a discussion with their
                       Personal Adviser, wish to continue to receive support, or those who return later during this
                       period, will have an entitlement to resume support from a Personal Adviser previously
                       responsible for their leaving care support.
 497                 </p>
 498                 <p>
 498                   Depending on the level of their needs, the Personal Adviser's role is expected to reduce
                       over time and become focussed on specific issues with an emphasis on enabling the young
                       adult to take increasingly more responsibility - signposting them to other agencies for
                       information and guidance, including further education and training.
 498                 </p>
 499                 <p>
 499                   Personal Advisers should apply professional judgement when deciding what level of needs
                       assessment is appropriate.
 499                 </p>
 500                 <p>
 500                   In all cases where support continues to be offered and provided at this stage, a record
                       should continue to be made be made setting out the issues discussed, and details of any
                       support that the local authority has agreed to provide, so that it can be demonstrated what
                       action they have taken in response to the young adult's request for support.
 500                 </p>
 501                 <h3 id="keeping">
 501                   8.1 Keeping in Touch
 501                 </h3>
 502                 <p>
 502                   It is the role of the Personal Adviser to keep in touch with the young person, and to remain
                       informed as to the young person's progress. However, when the young person becomes 'Former
                       Relevant' this may become more of a challenge and will be dependent on the wishes and needs
                       of the individual care leaver.
 502                 </p>
 503                 <p>
 503                   A route back for the young person to seek support in the future should be kept open and
                       communicated, for example by sending a birthday card, appropriate festive greeting, letter
                       or a leaflet on how to get in touch in the future, including a link, or details, as to how
                       to access the Local Offer. Also ensuring that the young person receives any circulated
                       information about services or events in which they may have an interest.
 503                 </p>
 504                 <p>
 504                   It should be explained to them that they will be supported to overcome any difficulties they
                       may be experiencing. Where appropriate they should be advised they can return to education
                       or training up to age 25 if this is their wish. (All young people who are Not in Education,
                       Employment, or Training (NEET) should be encouraged to take up this offer of support).
 504                 </p>
 505                 <p>
 505                   Although there is no requirement to proactively keep in touch with all young people aged
                       over 21 up to age 25 throughout the year, there is a duty which requires local authorities
                       to make care leavers aware that they can continue to request Personal Adviser support when
                       the person turns 21, and on at least an annual basis thereafter.
 505                 </p>
 506                 <p>
 506                   In Warrington, all young people aged over 21 up to age 25 who are not in touch, will be
                       contacted on an annual basis to advise and remind them of their entitlements.
 506                 </p>
 507                 <p>
 507                   As with any other circumstance involving vulnerable people, the local authority will need to
                       assess the balance between the risk of harm to the individual, and the rights and freedom of
                       care leavers to choose their own lives and lifestyles. In some situations the Personal
                       Adviser may continue monitoring the welfare of the care leaver, and take appropriate action
                       if necessary (as might be expected to occur in the case of any vulnerable adult that comes
                       to the attention of the local authority).
 507                 </p>
 508               </div>
 509               <div class="section1">
 509               </div>
 515               <div class="section">
 515                 <h2 id="educ_train">
 515                   9. Education, Training and Employment
 515                 </h2>
 516                 <h3>
 516                   9.1 Planning for Education, Training and Careers
 516                 </h3>
 517                 <p>
 517                   Care leavers must be provided with access to high quality information, advice and guidance
                       to inform their plans in order to progress into continuing education, training or
                       employment. How this will be met should be included in the Pathway Plan. They should be
                       offered work experience and other opportunities to allow them to test their career
                       aspirations and needs. Career planning tools should be used to inform Pathway Plans.
 517                 </p>
 518                 <p>
 518                   The local authority should make every effort not to disrupt a young person's education
                       during their key stage 4 years, both in terms of their school and care placement unless the
                       circumstances clearly require this (see also
 518                   <a href="p_educ_lac.html#avoid">
 518                     Education of Looked After and Previously Looked After Children Procedure, Avoidance of
                         Disruption in Education
 518                   </a>
 518                   ).
 518                 </p>
 519                 Placement arrangements for young people considering attending university, from their 18th
                     birthday to the point they commence higher education courses, must be addressed and agreed
                     well in advance of their 18th birthday. Plans need to be made for the vacation breaks. The
                     local authority should not move a young person participating in a course of education during
                     the academic year after their 18th birthday.
 520                 <h3>
 520                   9.2 Care Leavers Continuing in Education
 520                 </h3>
 521                 <p>
 521                   Where young people are continuing with an education or training course beyond their 21st
                       birthday, the practical and financial support being provided must continue to be set out in
                       their Pathway Plan.
 521                 </p>
 522                 <p>
 522                   Pathway Plans must set out accommodation arrangements, including financial arrangements
                       during term time, short vacations and the long summer vacation.
 522                 </p>
 523                 <h3>
 523                   9.3
 523                   <a id="bursary">
 523                   </a>
 523                   The 16-19 Bursary Fund and Higher Education Bursary
 523                 </h3>
 524                 <p>
 524                   The 16-19 Bursary Fund helps 16-19 year olds continue in further education, where they might
                       face financial barriers to participation such as the cost of transport, food or equipment.
                       Young people in the defined group include those in care and care leavers. See the
 524                   <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/16-to-19-education-financial-support-for-students"
                       target="_blank" rel="noopener">
 524                     Department for Education website - The 16-19 Bursary Fund
 524                   </a>
 524                   .
 524                 </p>
 525                 <p>
 525                   The Higher Education Bursary is for care leavers in higher education.
 525                 </p>
 526               </div>
 527               <div class="section1">
 527               </div>
 533               <div class="section">
 533                 <h2 id="yp_resume_edu">
 533                   10. Young People Resuming Education or Training After 21
 533                 </h2>
 534                 <p>
 534                   The definition of a programme of education or training must be interpreted broadly. For
                       example, this might include options such as: completion of a basic skills course, so that
                       the young person has the numeracy and literacy skills needed to compete in the jobs market;
                       take up of a course of further education; take up of a university place; support to enable
                       the young person to complete a recognised postgraduate qualification; or participation in
                       vocational training and apprenticeships.
 534                 </p>
 535                 <p>
 535                   Care leavers will need support and guidance to help them think about and plan their return
                       to education or training, consider all aspects such as financial support and the impact on
                       their housing or benefits.
 535                 </p>
 536                 <p>
 536                   Where a care leaver requests this support, an assessment should be made to assess the
                       appropriateness of the education or training course and how it will help them to achieve
                       their ambitions. The Personal Adviser should meet with the care leaver and, based on the
                       assessment of their needs and the suitability of the course, update the Pathway Plan. The
                       plan must have a specific focus on the support that the care leaver will need to be able to
                       meet the education or training goals agreed. The plan should reflect the agreed educational
                       outcomes for the young person and the type of support the young person will require. This
                       assessment should draw on the information about the young person's skills and capabilities
                       which will have been set out in Pathway Plans up to age 21. The extent of practical and
                       financial assistance provided will depend on the assessment of the young person's needs and
                       will reflect the type of course, whether it is full or part time and the young person's
                       existing income.
 536                 </p>
 537               </div>
 538               <div class="section1">
 538               </div>
 544               <div class="section">
 544                 <h2 id="qualify">
 544                   11. Qualifying Young People
 544                 </h2>
 545                 <p>
 545                   Services for Qualifying Young People will be determined by an assessment of need carried out
                       by the Leaving Care Team.
 545                 </p>
 546                 <p>
 546                   The support offered, which could be financial, will focus upon helping the young person to
                       manage and cope in the community and to manage the transition to adulthood. Attempts will be
                       made to ensure that they are able to access suitable accommodation and maintain social and
                       family links.
 546                 </p>
 547                 <p>
 547                   Where necessary, in addition to support, practical help should be offered to the young
                       person. This could include helping to acquire basic living skills and consideration of
                       health needs and choices. Where necessary, links will be made with other services and
                       assistance can be provided when they have to have contact with other agencies. Advice and
                       support should also be offered in relation to employment, training and educational
                       opportunities.
 547                 </p>
 548                 <p>
 548                   Local authorities should also set out what assistance can be provided to young people who
                       are 'Qualifying' as a result of being in Care immediately prior to becoming subject to a
                       Special Guardianship Order or subject to a private fostering arrangement. Local authorities
                       will need to be clear about which local authority is responsible for the provision of
                       services to qualifying young people.
 548                 </p>
 549                 <p>
 549                   The young person's social worker should also help to identify, secure and pay for vacation
                       accommodation, for those qualifying young people who have accessed higher education, or
                       residential further education courses.
 549                 </p>
 550                 <p>
 550                   Approval for the provision of such financial support must be sought by the young person's
                       social worker by making a written request to the Designated Manager (Leaving Care).
 550                 </p>
 551                 <p>
 551                   The request should specify the type of financial support sought, the reason for the request
                       and the total cost involved.
 551                 </p>
 552               </div>
 553               <div class="section1">
 553               </div>
 559               <div class="section">
 559                 <h2 id="where_care">
 559                   12. Where Care Leavers Live or Move to a Different Local Authority Area
 559                 </h2>
 560                 <p>
 560                   Where a care leaver resides in a different local authority area, the local authority must
                       seek to ensure that a service is provided that is commensurate with the service which they
                       would receive if they had remained resident in the area.
 560                 </p>
 561                 <p>
 561                   Whenever possible, plans for movement of care leavers to a different local authority area
                       must be discussed and the level of service provision agreed with the host authority
                       concerned prior to the move taking place.
 561                 </p>
 562                 <p>
 562                   All care leavers should be advised on how to access care leavers' services if they move to a
                       different local authority area and need assistance. The advice provided should be in written
                       form.
 562                 </p>
 563                 <p>
 563                   With young people moving to other authorities, a discussion and joint meeting between the
                       respective Leaving Care Teams must be arranged.
 563                 </p>
 564               </div>
 565               <div class="section1">
 565               </div>
 571               <div class="section">
 571                 <h2 id="stay_put">
 571                   13. Staying Put
 571                 </h2>
 572                 <p>
 572                   A Staying Put arrangement is where a young person who has been living in foster care remains
                       in the former foster home after the age of 18.
 572                 </p>
 573                 <p>
 573                   For a young person living in foster care, the first Case Review following their 16th
                       birthday should consider whether a Staying Put arrangement should be an option.
 573                 </p>
 574                 <p>
 574                   For further information see the
 574                   <a
                       href="https://www.warrington.gov.uk/sites/default/files/2019-09/staying_put_policy_po122.pdf
                       " target="_blank" rel="noopener">
 574                     Staying Put Policy
 574                   </a>
 574                   .
 574                 </p>
 575               </div>
 576               <div class="section1">
 576               </div>
 582               <div class="section">
 582                 <h2 id="access">
 582                   14. Access to Records
 582                 </h2>
 583                 <p>
 583                   Over the course of their lifetime, people who have spent all or part of their childhood and
                       adolescence in local authority care may want to access information about this period in
                       their lives. There can be a range of reasons why people who have left care want to do this,
                       including curiosity about why they came into care; what happened and when; a need to make
                       sense of difficult memories and life events; to clarify disparate explanations; a desire to
                       trace family members; seeking medical information in reference to hereditary illness/disease
                       and also to obtain photos/certificates. For information on access to records by care
                       leavers, see
 583                   <a href="files/subject_access_rec.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
 583                     Subject to Access Records Procedure
 583                   </a>
 583                   .
 583                 </p>
 584               </div>
 585               <div class="section1">
 585               </div>
 591               <div class="section">
 591                 <h2 id="app">
 591                   Appendix 1: Needs Assessment and Content of Pathway Plans for Relevant and Former Relevant
                       Children
 591                 </h2>
 592                 <p>
 592                   <a
                       href="https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/397649/CA198
                       9_Transitions_guidance.pdf#page=21" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
 592                     Click here to view Appendix 1: Needs Assessment and Content of Pathway Plans for Relevant
                         and Former Relevant Children
 592                   </a>
 592                   .
 592                 </p>
 593               </div>
 594               <div class="section1">
 594               </div>
 600               <div class="section1">
 600               </div>
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