As a care leaver, you might wonder why you need a Personal Advisor (PA) and what they do.
A Personal Advisor offers advice, support and information to help you prepare for independence. They contribute to your pathway plan and make sure it is carried out correctly.
Their role includes:
- assessing your needs
- identifying your goals
- helping you overcome challenges
When you are 17
You will be allocated to the Leaving Care Service. Your Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) and Social Worker will talk to you about the support you want and need from the Leaving Care Team.
We understand not everyone feels ready to leave care, so we work with you based on how you feel about your journey to independence.
Support into adulthood
Moving to adulthood can feel overwhelming. We act as a “parent figure” guiding you, offering advice and being there when you need us.
Just because you’re an adult doesn’t mean you’re expected to manage everything alone. We will help you along the way.
Once you turn 18
Your Personal Advisor will:
- take over responsibility from your Social Worker
- review your pathway plan every six months and make sure you reach your goals
- keep in touch and make sure you get the support you need
We will contact you at least every 6 to 8 weeks, or more often if you need us.
How long support lasts
You can get help from your PA until you’re 25.
At 21, you can choose to leave the service. If you do, you can still access our Closed Care Leaver Offer or return to the service at any time until you turn 25.