Staying put

Learn about Staying Put in Somerset, which supports you to stay with foster carers after 18

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To help you get ready for living on your own, we will first talk to you about supported housing options. One of these is called Staying Put.

Staying Put means that if you are already living with foster carers, and you are in education, training or work, you may be able to stay living with them after you turn 18. You can usually stay until you are 21, or move on earlier if you feel ready.

While you are Staying Put, your foster carers will keep supporting you. They will help you build the skills and confidence you need to live independently, step by step.

If Staying Put is something you and your foster carers both want, we will support you to make this happen. This is known as a Staying Put arrangement.

You will pay rent, and your Personal Adviser will help you set this up. You can stay in a Staying Put arrangement until you are 21.

You can read more in Somerset’s ‘Staying Put’ policy

Last reviewed: May 15, 2026 by Ian

Next review due: November 15, 2026

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