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Everything you need, wherever you are

The Graduating Care South West (GCSW) app brings together local events, activities, news and information about the support available to you. You can also view translated content in different languages and explore your full range of entitlements.

Scan the QR code or search for 'GCSW' in your app store to get started. It's free to download and much of the content can be accessed offline.
 
QR code to download Graduating Care South West app
Graduating Care South West (GCSW) app logo

Our local offer for Dorset care experienced young people

We know that becoming an adult is a big step with many new decisions to make. We want you to know that we still care about you and that you can get support when you need it.   

We want care experienced young people in Dorset, sometimes known as care leavers, to feel safe and supported and know where to go for advice and help.    

 We want to make sure you:  

  • have somewhere to live  
  • are healthy  
  • stay safe  
  • do well in education and work  

Our local offer for care experienced people sets out the support available as you leave care. It tells you about your rights and what you are entitled to. We have shaped our local offer using feedback from care experienced young people in Dorset about what they need from our services.   

The support you get depends on when you came into care and how long you were in care.

If you are not sure whether you're a care leaver, this tool from Coram Voice can help. 

Find out the different kinds of care leavers, and what ages they apply to

Find out how we assist you to understand your finances and what practical support is available

We want you to succeed in your education training and work and will support you to achieve your goals

Explore the housing choices available to you

Details of your health passport, and how your personal adviser can help you access health services

Find out how a personal adviser will support and advise you as a care leaver

Find out about the Youth Voice Network you can join

Support available for you to be the best version of yourself

The Dorset care leavers hub in Weymouth is a safe place for care leavers over the age of 18

Details of the support your Personal Advisor will provide in order for you to become independent

Your Personal Adviser will work with you until you are 21. They can continue to work with you until you are 25 if you choose

Advice and support that's available when you reach 25 years old and beyond. 

The support available if you have come to the UK and are seeking asylum here

You have a right to be listened to and have your views taken seriously. Find out how an advocate can support you

You have a right to see the personal information we hold about you. This includes the records written about you when you were in care

Your Pathway Plan is a something written with you, and sets out your needs, views, and future goals

If you are pregnant or a parent, your Personal Adviser can help you to get the support you and your family might need

Information on what happens if you are detained in prison

Our promise to our children and young people

You can get in touch to share a comment, compliment or complaint

Meet the care leavers team

Meet your care leavers team and see who will be supporting you.

Contact us

Contact the care leavers team.

You can also email the leaving care team direct to share a comment or compliment about your PA at: [email protected]