Staying Close
The Staying Close programme offers extra support alongside our standard leaving care offer, helping you to feel confident and supported as you move into independence.
We know that leaving care can feel exciting, challenging, or a mix of both. Our aim is to support you every step of the way—with as much or as little help as you need—so you can achieve your goals and thrive.
As part of this programme, Staying Close Personal Advisers provide enhanced support in addition to your Leaving Care Personal Adviser. There is a particular focus on supporting you through your transition to independent living.
Who can access staying close?
Staying Close is available to eligible young people who have lived in residential care or supported accommodation and are moving towards independence.
Young people can access Staying Close support up to the age of 25, subject to their individual circumstances and assessed needs. Support is provided on a voluntary basis, and young people can choose the level of engagement that feels right for them.
If you are unsure whether you are eligible for Staying Close support, you can speak to your Social Worker, Personal Adviser, or a member of the Leaving Care Team who will be happy to discuss this with you.
Individualised support
Not every young person will require the same level of support. The Staying Close team will work alongside you to understand your strengths, needs, goals and aspirations and will tailor support accordingly.
The support you receive will be linked to your Pathway Plan. It will be reviewed regularly with you to ensure it continues to meet your needs as you move towards independence.
Lifelong relationships
Where appropriate, Staying Close support aims to help you maintain positive relationships with people who are important to you. This can include former residential staff, family members, friends and other trusted adults. We recognise that having supportive and consistent relationships can be an important part of wellbeing, stability and successful independence.
What support is available
The programme provides tailored support to help you:
- find a safe and suitable place to live
- access education, training, or employment
- develop practical skills for independent living
- improve and maintain your health and wellbeing
How we will support you
If you are eligible, you will receive:
- a dedicated Staying Close Personal Adviser. They will work alongside your Leaving Care PA to plan and achieve your goals for independence
- enhanced, tailored support focused on your transition into independent living
- proactive support to help you find accommodation, employment, education, or training opportunities
- access to interactive life skills sessions, tailored to your needs. This may include:
- cooking simple, healthy meals
- managing money
- coping with pressure and stressful situations
- support using ASDAN ‘Moving On’ workbooks to help you build skills, track your progress, and prepare for independent living
- help to identify and reconnect with family and friends, where this is safe and appropriate