Qualifying young people (section 24)
A qualifying child who is 16 or 17 years old and has previously been looked after, but ceased to be looked after at least 6 months before their 18th birthday, does not have the same restrictions to claiming welfare benefits as eligible and relevant young people do.
As a result of this, the local authority and leaving care service will not pay a personal allowance or pay for the accommodation costs for these young people. All qualifying children aged 18+ who would like a service from the leaving care service will have their needs assessed and be supported through information advice and guidance.
Where, following an initial assessment, it is concluded that support will be necessary over a period, a plan will be drawn up with the young person. The plan will outline the support to be provided to the young person.