What is a child in care?
A child in care is a child or young person who cannot live with their parents or carers. They are looked after by the local authority.
They may live with:
- foster carers
- relatives
- family friends
- staff in a children's home
The place where they live will be chosen based on what is best for their needs.
Wirral Council works with children, young people, families and carers. They help children in care stay safe, get support and do well in life.
Support for children in care
When a child comes into care, a team of people will support them and make sure their views are heard.
This team may include:
- a social worker
- an independent reviewing officer (IRO)
- foster carers, family carers or residential care staff
- health professionals
- education professionals
- advocacy and participation services
Every child in care will have a care plan. This sets out the support they will receive and plans for their future.
Care Experience Hub
The Care Experience Hub is a website for children in care and those who have spent time in care.
It was created with local children and young people. It includes information about rights, support services and opportunities.
You can find information about:
- understanding the care system
- care plans and reviews
- your rights in care
- social workers and other professionals
- health and wellbeing
- education, training and work
- fostering and adoption
- preparing for independent living
- accommodation and housing
- leaving care support
- activities and opportunities
Leaving care
As young people become adults, they may be able to get support. This is from Wirral's Leaving Care Service.
The service can help with:
- education, employment and training
- finding and keeping accommodation
- physical and emotional wellbeing
- managing money
- getting benefits
- building relationships and support networks
- developing independence and life skills
Young people may be able to get support from a personal adviser up to the age of 25.
Wirral's Local Offer
The Local Offer explains what support is available to young people who have been in care in Wirral.
It includes information about:
- health and wellbeing
- education, employment and training
- accommodation
- financial support
- having your voice heard
- relationships and community support
- practical help and advice
You can view the Local Offer through the Care Experience Hub.
Have your say
Children and young people have the right to have a say in decisions about their lives and the support they get.
There are lots of ways for children in care to have their say and help improve services.
To find out more, visit the Care Experience Hub.
If you would like to get involved, email: