Children are in care for a number of reasons; sometimes just for a short while, or in some cases, until they become an adult.
Children may be in care because their parents have made an agreement with the local authority or it may be due to a court ruling which says a child is unable to live with their own family and requires looking after in care.
Being in care could mean a child lives with extended family and friends, foster carers, in a residential children’s home or in secure accommodation.
When you come into care you will have an Initial Health Assessment (IHA) – this is a statutory health assessment that is required to be completed within 20 days of coming into care and is completed by a paediatrician. Take a look at the My Health Assessment website for helpful information that prepares children for what will happen during the health assessment process. It is designed for children between the ages of 4 and 11 and should be accessed at home with the support of their carer.