A care leaver is a young person between the ages of 16 and 25 who has at some point been looked after away from their family.
The period between being in care and then becoming a care leaver can be a very daunting experience, especially at such a young age.
Work in social care and be the lifeline your community needs.
As part of Care leavers week we have invited some of our young care leavers to share their experiences, advice, their stories, and their plans and aspirations for the future.
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We have been extremely moved by some of the young people’s accounts and other than small changes to in some cases maintain anonymity, the inspiring words spoken are by the young care leavers themselves.
All care leavers were asked the same questions, and the answers show that their personal circumstances and personalities have meant that they have all had quite different experiences to each other.
We hope that their words will offer comfort, advice and inspiration to other young adults in similar situations…
I’m 20 years old, I grew up in Wrexham but I have recently re located to Essex. I have been in the great care of Wrexham care leavers for a while.
I enjoy Working out or listening to music.
I was 15 when I came into care.
The experience started off as scary as I didn’t know what to expect. But I’ve had the great support from the P.As and Social workers who have supported me since the first day, they always re assured myself everything will be okay. I wouldn’t have gotten as far as I have if it wasn’t for having them by my side.
I found this transition was okay because I had the support from the leaving care team.
I’m a rescue co-ordinator, I would like to work my way up to supervision. But my long term goal is doing something related to sales.
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I am 19 years old. I live at home with my 22 month old son and my partner.
I am currently studying childcare in Coleg Cambria. I am in my final year of college and I am looking to go to university in September 2022.
I really enjoy going to college and also doing placement in a school. I also enjoy listening to music and doing things with my family and dog.
I was 14 years old when I first went into care. Thankfully I was placed with the best foster carers ever who really supported me and made me feel comfortable and safe. I still speak to my foster carers now we meet up and do things, at the end of the day they will always be family.
I’ve really enjoyed moving into my own place, I’ve been in my own house for two years now, and although at times it can be stressful managing money and bills it’s all really worth it to be able to have somewhere to call my own home.
I am currently studying my second/final year of Level 3 Childcare and in the process of sending my application off to university, where I am hoping to study social work and become a social worker myself to help children and families just like myself.
If you are a care leaver and would like advice please contact: The Leaving Care Team on 01978295610
If you would like more information on becoming a foster carer please contact: Taylor Downes 01978295316 , Taylor.Downes@wrexham.gov.uk
If you would like to find more information on offering supported lodgings, please contact: Sara Jones – sara.jones@wrexham.gov.uk, 01978295320
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