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Care Leavers

This information is only relevant to care leavers.

The legal definition of a care leaver is a young person who is aged 25 and under who has been in the care of the local authority for a period of 13 weeks or more spanning their 16th birthday.

If you are unsure if you are a care leaver you should contact the duty social worker within the local authority where you spent time in care.

Information about the support available to Devon care leavers can be found at:

Info for Care Leavers - Stand Up Speak Up - Stand Up Speak Up

Housing options for care leavers can vary and you should work with your personal advisor to identify the right option for you.  Options include:

  • Staying put - if you are living with a foster family and do not feel ready to live independently it may be possible for you to remain where you are for longer
  • Supported accommodation.  There may be different supported accommodation options, including projects specifically for young people.
  • Living independently in your own accommodation.  We can give advice on applying for social housing through Devon Home Choice and on looking for private rented housing.

If you are homeless or at risk of losing your home you can self-refer to us for help online:

Self-referral - Jigsaw