Here are some ways to help you stay healthy and take care of both your body and mind.
Looking after your health and wellbeing
Your health and wellbeing matter. We want to help you stay healthy, feel supported and get the right care when you need it.
Looking after yourself is about more than seeing a doctor when you're ill. It includes your physical health, mental health, relationships, confidence, and feeling connected to your community.
Your Personal Adviser can help you
Your Personal Adviser (PA) can help you to:
- register with a GP and dentist
- understand what health services are available and how to access them
- book or attend appointments if you would like support
- find information about prescriptions and NHS services
- access support for your mental health and emotional wellbeing
- get advice about sexual health, relationships, drugs and alcohol
- move smoothly from children's health services to adult services
- find local wellbeing activities, groups and support services
- access sports, leisure and community activities that help you stay healthy and connected
You can also visit the NHS website for trusted advice on health conditions, symptoms and treatments.
Help with NHS costs
You may be able to get help with:
- prescription costs
- dental treatment
- eye tests
- glasses or contact lenses
Check what help you are entitled to before paying for treatment.
Important
Receiving Universal Credit does not automatically mean NHS treatment will be free. What support you can get depends on your income and personal circumstances.
If you're unsure, speak to your Personal Adviser and they can help you check what you're entitled to.
Your health assessment at 17
You will be offered a health assessment when you turn 17. This is similar to your annual health review but focuses on helping you prepare for adulthood. It includes health advice, information and signposting to services you may need in the future. You can also access health support through your GP at any time.
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Your Health Passport
When you turn 18, your Looked After Children's Nurse will give you a Health Passport. This is a summary of your health history and includes important information about your physical and emotional health.
Your Health Passport can help doctors, nurses and other health professionals understand your needs and provide the right support. If you lose your Health Passport, speak to your Personal Adviser who can help you get another copy.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Taking care of your mental health is just as important as looking after your physical health.
Everyone needs support sometimes. Whether you are feeling stressed, anxious, low, lonely or just need someone to talk to, help is available.
Free online therapy for care leavers
Through our partnership with Concrete Rose and BetterHelp, eligible care leavers in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough can access up to six months of free online therapy.
Getting started
- Complete the online sign-up form with Concrete Rose.
- If you're eligible, you'll receive a referral code by email.
- Create a BetterHelp account and enter your code.
- You will usually be matched with a therapist within 48 to 72 hours.
- You can message your therapist, book sessions and use wellbeing tools through the app.
Getting urgent mental health help
If you're struggling with thoughts of suicide or self-harm, or feel like you can't cope right now, please reach out for support.
You are not alone, and there are people who care about you and want to help. Speaking to your Personal Adviser, a trusted adult, or a support service can make a real difference.
For immediate help call:
Website: Where to get urgent help for mental health - NHS
Your privacy is protected. Social Care will not receive information about your therapy, appointments or progress.
Find information below on other support available.
Sexual health and relationships
Healthy relationships and good sexual health are important parts of staying well.
If you have questions or need support, confidential advice is available.
LGBTQ+ support
Keeping active, building confidence and getting involved
Being active, trying new things and spending time with other people can improve your physical health, mental wellbeing and confidence.
Getting involved in your community can help you make friends, build support networks and feel connected. The national care leaver guidance recognises that taking part in community life helps young people reduce isolation, develop confidence and feel a sense of belonging.
Your Personal Adviser can help you find:
- gyms, sports clubs and leisure centres
- walking, cycling and outdoor activities
- wellbeing and support groups
- local volunteering opportunities
- community events and activities
- care leaver groups and social events
- arts, music, drama and creative activities
- faith and community groups if these are important to you
If costs such as membership fees, travel or equipment are stopping you from taking part, speak to your PA. We may be able to help.
Support if you have additional needs
Some care leavers may need extra support because of a disability, learning disability, autism, mental health need, physical health condition or other additional needs.
We will work with you to understand what support you need, what matters to you, and how we can help you achieve your goals and live as independently as possible.
Preparing for Adult Services
If it looks like you may need support from Adult Social Care, planning can start from age 17.
Starting early gives you time to:
- understand what support may be available
- meet new professionals
- ask questions
- plan for the future
- avoid gaps in support when you turn 18
Your PA will support you throughout the process and make sure your views are heard.
Your Personal Adviser will still be there
Moving into Adult Social Care does not mean you lose support from the Leaving Care Team.
Your Personal Adviser will continue to work alongside you and other professionals to help you achieve your goals and access the support you need.
