At 16 or 17 years of age you probably dislike being referred to as a child. This doesn’t mean that you are not being listened to or taken seriously, nor is any disrespect intended. It’s because English law defines a child as being a person under the age of 18. This means that legally you are still a child and this enables us to use the law to help and support you when you are homeless.

If it was determined you were homeless and you decided you didn’t want to be a Cared for Child it’s important for you to know that you haven’t lost that opportunity. You can change your mind you just need to let us know.

The social worker may not be the main person you see as the place that you live will have a key worker who will work closely with you and get to know you well. You will need to have a social worker if you are a Cared for Child and most young people find their support very helpful. The social worker will want to listen to you and get things right. A social worker can really help get problems sorted and find the sort of help you will need.

We will make sure you have help to speak out and your views will be taken seriously. There will be ways to get your voice heard even if you are not at the meeting. You can have an advocate who will help you make your point and your social worker can help you get in contact with one.

Anywhere you live will have rules to follow – the staff will be there to help you understand why the rules are important and keeping you and others safe will be key to these rules.

This is a person who supports you to help express your views and wishes. They help you to know and stand up for your rights.

This is a term used by the Council to identify who should have priority access to housing.