Financial support

Young people should receive a package of support which meets their assessed requirements. This will be based on individual circumstances and needs identified in their Pathway Assessment.

Given the different components that will make up such a package this could be cash and/or payment in kind. 

However, regular financial support to replace Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefits should normally only be given to young people under 18 years of age who ceased to be looked after away from home for over 13 weeks since the age of 14.

It is this category of young people that has had their entitlement to DWP benefits withdrawn under the Children (Leaving Care) Act 2000.  These young people should receive a package at least equivalent to the DWP benefits available to 16- and 17-year-olds at any particular time. 

There is more information on how financial assistance is provided for young people leaving care in the Supporting Young People Leaving Care Regulations.