Aftercare

The Herefordshire Aftercare Team will give their help and support to any young people who are in the process of leaving, or have recently left the care of the Herefordshire Local Authority, so if in doubt, always contact us. The list below is only a brief guide to help you and us understand your position and what kind of help and support you require or are entitled to.

1. You need to have been in care for at least three months between the ages of 14 and 16 years including your 16th birthday, or for three months after it (relief or respite care doesn't count).

2. If your answer is yes to 1, and you are currently between the ages of 16 and 18, and you:

(a) are in care, then you are now what is known as an Eligible Young Person (and will later become a Relevant Young Person).

(b) have left care, then you are now what is known as a Relevant Young Person and you can/should receive any of the Council's services for Care Leavers, including Housing. However, you may not receive maintenance if you are a single parent, or if you are claiming DLA. If you are unsure, contact us.

3. If your answer is yes to 1, and you are 18 years old or older, then you are what is known as a Former Relevant Young Person and will continue to be so until you reach the age of 21 (or up to 25 if you are in Full-Time Education, you then cease to be 'Former Relevant' when the course finishes). You are still able to access many of the services you were able to as a 'Relevant' Young Person.