Explore the diverse types of care placements for looked after children, from various forms of foster care to residential settings and supported accommodation. Understand how each placement type is designed to meet individual needs, promoting stability, safety, and well-being for children within the care system.
Care Leavers
Resources and information specifically for and about young people transitioning from the care system.
A Comprehensive Guide to the Rights of Children in Care: Safeguarding Their Future
Explore a comprehensive guide to the rights of children in care, covering legal frameworks, essential protections, and the roles of professionals in safeguarding their future and promoting well-being.
Mastering Cultural Competency & Leveraging Heritage Kits in Social Care
Explore how cultural competency and the innovative use of heritage kits can transform social care by affirming identity and improving outcomes for diverse populations, particularly children in care.
What is Semi-Independent Care? A Framework for Transitioning Youth
```html Semi-independent care is a structured, transitional accommodation provision designed for young people—typically aged 16 to 18—who are preparing to leave the statutory care system. It bridges the critical gap between heavily supported placements, such as foster care or children's homes, and...
The Weight of the Record: A Professional’s Guide to Handling Subject Access Requests (SARs) in Social Care
```html A Subject Access Request (SAR) or Data Access Request (DAR) is a legally binding request under the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018 that allows individuals, including looked after children and care leavers, to obtain copies of their personal data. For social care professionals,...
Breaking Down Stigmas: Understanding the Realities of Looked After Children
Introduction: What are Looked After Children? Looked After Children, also known as children in care, are individuals who are placed under the care and supervision of the local authority. This can occur for a variety of reasons, including neglect, abuse, or the inability of parents or guardians to...
The Digital Passport: A Professional Overview
```html As the Director of Looked After Child Limited, I have spent over seven years on the frontline—from NVQ Level 4 leadership to the daily realities of managing a residential home. I have seen the "paper trail" of a child's life fail them repeatedly during transitions. In 2026, we are finally...
The Care Leaver Covenant: Your Guide to Support and Opportunities
What is the Care Leaver Covenant? The Care Leaver Covenant is a national inclusion programme in England designed to support young people aged 16 to 25 as they transition from the care system to independent living. It is a formal "promise" made by private, public, and voluntary sector organisations...
Can You Be Successful After Being in Care? Inspirational Stories for Care-Experienced Youth
As someone who has walked this path, I know that being "in care" can sometimes feel like a label that limits your future. But I’m here to tell you—and show you—that your history is not your destiny. Being in care does not stop you from achieving greatness; in fact, the resilience you develop can...
How to Build Resilience While Living in Care: Your Guide to Staying Strong
```html Growing up in care comes with a unique set of challenges, but it also gives you a chance to build incredible inner strength. Building resilience in care means developing the ability to bounce back from difficult situations, manage stress, and keep moving forward toward your goals. While it...
What Does “Staying Put” Mean?
```html "Staying Put" is an arrangement that allows a young person to continue living with their former foster carers after they turn 18. Instead of being required to move out into independent living on their 18th birthday, this arrangement enables them to remain in a stable, familiar environment...
Navigating Ofsted: A Compass for Families and Professionals in 2026
This comprehensive guide navigates Ofsted’s evolving role in 2026, offering essential insights for families interpreting reports and professionals aiming for compliance and excellence in education and children’s social care.









