What does LAYP mean in UNCLASSIFIED

A Looked After Young Person (LAYP) is a child or young person under the age of 18 who is receiving some form of state protection or care primarily because of risk of harm, abuse, neglect or exploitation.

When someone is looked after, it means they are provided with care and support from a professional social worker or other support worker who may be employed by the local authority. The young person and their family may also receive additional services such as access to education, health and therapeutic interventions.

Looked After Young People have the same rights as any other child including the right to have their views taken into consideration in all matters that affect them, the right to express their culture, beliefs and identity, and the right to an independent advocate.

There are many ways in which you can support a Looked After Young Person. Listening to them without judgment and providing emotional support through difficult times can be invaluable. You could also offer practical help such as helping them manage finances or searching for employment opportunities.

Yes, fostering is often seen as an alternative to residential care for Looked After Young People and can offer more stability than other forms of care. It offers them greater opportunities for healthy relationships with adults outside of their family home environment which may not have been available before.

As with all forms of child protection work there are potential risks involved when looking after young people. These include risks posed by abusive behaviour towards staff or other children in care as well as potential legal issues associated with providing such services.

This varies depending on individual circumstances but typically most LAYPs remain in local authority care until they reach aged 18 at which time they become adult carers. Some LAYPs however may stay beyond this age if deemed necessary by professionals.

Yes, there are many organisations offering additional specialist advice and resources for those working with looked after young people such as advocacy services and therapeutic interventions tailored specifically to LAYPs needs.

Yes, there are various organisations that provide dedicated helpline services if you need advice regarding worries aboutLooked After Young People's wellbeing such as Childline on 0808 800 5000.