Independent visitors
Another lifeline for children in care is 'independent visitors' - a responsible adult who's completely outside the care system and who can befriend a child in care. It's especially useful for children who have little or no contact with their family, who would like a sounding board and confidante.
As Karen, now 20, told Who Cares? magazine: 'These days I’ve got a lot more confidence. I can definitely speak up for myself and have achieved things I wouldn’t have thought possible a few years ago. I’m happy now, I’m at college. I’ve got a boyfriend. I’m not sure these things would have happened if I hadn’t been put in touch with [my independent visitor] Phil. '
Most members of the public can apply to be an independent visitor, after checks for suitability, references and an interview.
News
- New publication for young people in care about post-16 opportunities - 27-Jan-2012
- Pay foster carers annual fees, says The Policy Exchange - 27-Jan-2012
- Care system found to counter offending - 27-Jan-2012
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