Staying Put Arrangements – What are they?
Monday 13 May 2024
Staying Put Arrangements, also known as Staying Put Schemes or Staying Put Foster Care, are a crucial aspect of foster care services. This arrangement allows young people who have been in foster care to remain with their foster families beyond the age of 18, typically until they are 21, and in some cases even longer.
The transition to adulthood is challenging for young people, and even more so for those who have been in foster care. Staying Put Arrangements provide stability, support, and continuity during this critical phase of a young person’s life. Ultimately, they help to bridge the gap between foster care and independent living.
Benefits of Staying Put Arrangements
Staying Put Arrangements offer many benefits for both young people and foster families. Many Foster Carers welcome Staying Put Arrangements, as it means they can continue to live with a young person who they have positive relationships with,
For young people, staying with their foster families can provide a sense of belonging and stability. It allows them to build on existing relationships and maintain connections with their support networks. It also means they can develop the skills and confidence to live independently, while still having the guidance of a trusted adult. This support helps care leavers to navigate the challenges of adulthood, such as education, employment, housing, and relationships.
The law has recognised Staying Put Arrangements since 2014. This means local authorities must support the former foster child and the former Foster Carer for the placement’s duration. Former Foster Carers may receive a Staying Put allowance to help them cover costs.
Implementing Staying Put Arrangements
Implementing Staying Put Arrangements requires careful planning, coordination, and support from social services, foster agencies, and other stakeholders. They must consider legal responsibilities, financial considerations, housing arrangements, and the individual needs and preferences of both the young person and the foster family.
Your Social Worker can talk to you more about this, and will be there to support you through the process of implementing Staying Put Arrangements.
The Impact of Staying Put Arrangements
By extending the support and stability of foster care into early adulthood, Staying Put Arrangements help to break the cycle of instability and insecurity that many care leavers face. They empower young people to pursue their dreams, achieve their potential, and build fulfilling lives beyond the foster care system.