What is staying close, staying connected?
Staying close, staying connected is a support programme for young people aged 16–20 who are in care or leaving care.
It’s there if you feel you need a bit of extra help.
The programme helps you stay connected to people you trust and gives you support as you move into adult life, in a way that works for you.
What does it offer?
- accommodation support – help with any housing problems and making sure you’re in a place where you feel safe and supported
- life skills – things like cooking, budgeting, cleaning, and managing bills
- support with work or college – help finding a job, getting into training, or applying for education
- someone to talk to – whether you’re struggling with mental health, relationships, or anything going on in your life
Why is it important?
Leaving care can feel hard, worrying, or lonely. SCSC makes sure you don’t have to figure everything out by yourself. It keeps you connected to people who care and helps you build a future that feels right for you.
Your social worker or leaving care worker may talk to you about joining the programme if they think it would help you. If they haven’t mentioned it and you feel you’d like some extra support, just let them know - they can put your name forward for the programme.