I am a care leaver, what are my housing options?

Key advice: if you are 18,19 or 20 and homeless, the Council will be able to offer you help with finding accommodation.

• You should continue to receive help and advice from your local council until your 21st birthday, or 25th birthday if you are still in education or training.
• Children’s Services can provide assistance with education and training until your 25th birthday
• Your personal adviser should still keep in touch and you should go over your pathway plan with you to see how you are getting on.
• You can ask Social Services for help if you need support to continue with your education or find training or employment. They may be able to help with the cost of living near your college, training centre or workplace.

Help with housing

• If you are a care leaver aged 18-21, you can get help from the both Social Services and housing departments. You can call Reigate and Banstead Borough Council on 01737 276 790 for further advice.
• If you are a care leaver aged 21 or over, you may be entitled to help from your local Council. Call us on 01737 276 790 for further advice and information.
• If you are in full-time further or higher education, Social Services must find you somewhere to live during holiday periods if you need it.

Financial support

• You are entitled to claim benefits when you turn 18.
• You should be able to claim Universal Credit if you need to