21 years and the celebration of your birthday should be an exciting time for every young person. We know that for some of our care experienced young people there may be worries about what support will be available if needed once you reach that age.
Dudley Care Leavers Service wants you to know that we will continue to be here for you to provide the reassurance, guidance, support and assistance, if you need it.
We want to support you to be in a settled position by the time that you reach 21 years, continuing to achieve your aspirations in education, training or employment, secure in a comfy home, feeling healthy and happy to keep us updated about how you are getting on.
Every young person’s journey is different. Not everyone can achieve this by 21 years, we recognise this and want you to know that is ok. Please keep in touch with your Personal Advisor (PA) and reach out whenever you need the service.
About 6 months before your 21st birthday your PA will arrange a discussion with you to explore:
- What’s currently going on in your life
- Your health and whether any additional services are needed
- Your housing situation, whether it’s settled
- What’s happening about education, training or employment and whether you need any additional help
- Your social connections- we all need others to turn to at different times, to share experiences, have a shoulder to lean on, enjoy celebrations, updates, to talk and spend time with.
When you turn 21 years old, if you need our on-going support, we will be there to guide you.
If you, your PA and their manager agree that you are ready to move forward with less support, your PA will celebrate your birthday with you. They will explain how we will keep in touch and how often we will check in. They will add a summary to your record detailing your progress, achievements and any future needs.
If you need us and your PA is not available, you can reach us on the number 01381817670 or you can email us on: clduty@dudley.gov.uk.