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.