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Frequently Asked Questions
Why am I being Looked After?
Young people are looked after for all sorts of reasons. It's important that your parents or social worker explain why you're being looked after. You have a right to know what is happening in your life. If you are not sure, ask them to explain.
How long will I live away from my family?
Everyone's different but you may be looked after for a short time or until you are able to live independently. We will always work with you and your family to get you back home as soon as possible, as long as it is the right thing for you.
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Where will I live?
Most young people live in foster homes. Some young people prefer the idea of a Children's Residential Unit rather than living with another family. Of course, where you live will also depend on where there are available places at the time. In most cases, we will aim to place you as close to your family as possible.
Will I see my family?
It's really important for you to keep in touch with your family if that's what you and your family want. Your Social Worker and the people caring for you will help with the arrangements and do whatever they can. Sometimes young people don't want to see their families because of what has happened before, or the courts will say it's not safe but mostly, young people keep in touch.
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What if I have been placed outside Somerset?
We are still responsible for you whether you are living in or outside Somerset. You are entitled to the same rights and visits by your social worker.
Do people take any notice of what I want to happen?
The law says we have to take notice of your wishes and feelings. We know it's right that you should have a say and that things work better if you are involved. It's important for you to say what YOU want when your Social Worker, your family and the people caring for you are making plans and at your reviews.
If there are things you are not happy with, it's best to talk to your carers and your Social Worker who can usually sort things out. Additionally, you can always contact the Advocacy Service, PROMISE, for support on 01458 254997.
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What about clothes and pocket money?
Whether you're living in a foster home or a Children's Residential Unit, your carers will receive money from Children's Social Care to provide you with clothes and give you regular pocket money. Of course you may have you own clothes you want to take with you too.
When you need new clothes, your carers may go shopping with you or let you buy your own depending on your age and the situation.
What happens if I behave badly and what punishments can be used?
Rules are necessary to help people get on and live well together. We all have times when we get upset and angry and your carers will understand this and try to help you through your troubles.
However, bad behaviour and breaking of the rules may mean that your carer has to take action. This might be a telling off and also might include something like extra chores, a reduction in pocket money (to repair damage for example) or removal of music/television from your bedroom if it is causing a problem. Any punishment should fit the misbehaviour.
There are rules to protect you from unfair punishments. For example, you carers cannot:
- swear at you or threaten you
- stop your meals (although if your actions cause you to miss a meal you may have to prepare yourself a snack)
- make you wear inappropriate clothing (for example, keeping you in your night wear all day to prevent you leaving the house)
- stop you seeing your family just because you misbehaved
- stop you seeing others who are involved with your welfare (eg your Social Worker, an advocate etc)
- lock you in your room, though it is acceptable for you to be sent to your room for bad behaviour
- hit you or handle you roughly, although carers may need to hold you tightly to stop you causing harm to yourself or others
If you think that you have been treated unreasonably by your carer, discuss it with your Social Worker.
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What about my hobbies and sports?
Lots of young people are involved in sports and/or have hobbies and interests that they like to pursue in their spare time. If you would like to continue with a hobby, begin a new interest or join a club or sports team, speak to your carer and Social Worker about it. They may be able to help you find a local club and/or help with necessary travel arrangements and costs.
What happens if I move placement?
It is not always possible for young people to stay in the same Residential Unit or foster home throughout the time they are looked after. If it becomes necessary for you to move home, your Social Worker will talk to you about it and ask what you want to happen. You will be involved with the arrangements and will know about the move before it happens, unless there is an emergency. This will mean that you will have time to get used to the idea and tell your friends about the plans.
Will I have to move schools?
We will try to make sure that you go to the same school. When this is not possible, we may make arrangements for you to attend a school near your new home.
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