When you're leaving care, it's natural if you're feel anxious, lonely or isolated.
45% of children in care have a mental health disorder according to our Neglected Minds report. So, if you're feeling anxious, low or are struggling with your feelings, remember you’re not alone.
Asking for help can be hard but there's nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about. Remember it takes courage to admit that you're struggling and speaking to someone is the first, and most important, step.
For instance, you could talk to your social worker, carer or personal advisor about how you’re feeling. Or if you’re feeling very worried, you could speak to your doctor (GP) about counselling.
Barnardo's mental health services
Whether you need practical support or just a listening ear, we have a range of mental health services you can lean on too.
Some of the mental health services we offer include:
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CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)
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ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) support
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LGBT+ support
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Counselling
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Support for young people who have experienced trauma and abuse
Some support you may be able to ask to access yourself. This is called self-referral. Other times, a GP, teacher or social worker will need to request this support for you.
Tackling isolation and loneliness
We know that one of the biggest problems facing care-experienced people is loneliness and isolation.
35% of young people leaving care go on to live in a flat on their own. So, it can be really tough if you live far away from friends or need to vent after a hard day’s work.
If left unchecked, loneliness can take a toll on your mood and self-esteem, so don’t suffer in silence.
We believe no young person should ever feel isolated. So, we have a range of services to help you make meaningful connections including befriending services and social clubs for care-experienced people.
You can get more access to online support and advice at our here.
That initial ‘you’re going into care’ is the most isolated you’ll ever feel.
Rhi
25, a young care-experienced person
We know that lockdown was particularly hard for care experienced people. Our 360-degree experience, illustrates the lockdown experience through the eyes of a care leaver supported by Barnardo’s.
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Accommodation for care leavers
Everyone deserves somewhere safe and stable to call home. Explore where you could live and find support to help you live independently.
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What is a pathway plan and personal advisor?
Leaving care can be a big leap. But there should be a plan in place to make it a bit easier.
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Financial support for care leavers
If you're a care-experienced young person, you may be entitled to financial support to help your education, training and employment, or for necessities such as food, transport and clothing.