What a care leaver is

When you are considered a care leaver

If you’re between 18 and 25 and spent at least 13 weeks in care at some point, you’re classed as a care leaver, and can get support from Wokingham Council’s Care Leaving Service. This could’ve been one long stay or a few shorter ones that add up.

You’re usually covered if either of the following applies:

• You were in care after turning 14, and some of that time was on or after your 16th birthday
• You were in care at any point during your 16th or 17th year

It’s okay if you’re not sure you’re a care leaver. A lot of people aren’t sure at first. You can talk to your social worker or Personal Advisor (PA), and they can help you work it out quickly.

If you'd like, you can use the simple question tool on the Coram Voice website to check for yourself. It’s quick and easy, and might help put your mind at ease.

Other situations where you can get support

Even if your experience doesn’t quite look like what you expect, you may still be able to get support. Everyone’s journey is different, and yours still matters. This can include if:

• You lived (or still live) with a family member, relative, or friend under a Special Guardianship Order
• You were adopted but later came back into care for 13 weeks or more
• You were looked after by Wokingham Borough Council for 13 weeks as an unaccompanied asylum-seeking child before your 18th birthday

If any of these ring a bell, support is still very much there for you.

If care has been part of your life in any way, you don’t have to go through things alone. Support is there for you, and there are people ready to listen and help along the way.

What is a Personal Advisor

A Personal Advisor (PA) is basically your go‑to person as you step into adulthood. They’re there to chat things through, help you sort out your goals, and work with you on your Pathway Plan.
Think of them as someone who’s in your corner, someone you can rely on, who listens, and who’s there to help you make sense of the next steps.