Children (Leaving Care) Act (Northern Ireland) 2002 - Explanatory Notes

1. Introduction

2. Background and Policy Objectives

3. The New Provisions

4. Consultation

5. Options Considered

6. Outline of the Existing Law

7. Overview

8. Commentary on Sections

   1. Section 1 – Further duties of authorities towards children whom they are looking after

   2. Article 34A – Preparation for ceasing to be looked after

   3. Section 2 – Additional functions of authorities in respect of certain children

   4. Article 34B – The responsible authority and relevant children

   5. Article 34C – Additional functions of the responsible authority in respect of relevant children

   6. Article 34D – Continuing functions in respect of former relevant children

   7. Section 3 – Personal advisers and pathway plans

   8. Article 34E – Personal advisers

   9. Article 34F – Pathway plans

   10. Section 4 – Advice and assistance for certain children and young persons aged 16 or over

   11. Article 35 – Persons qualifying for advice and assistance

   12. Article 35A – Advice and assistance

   13. Article 35B – Employment, education and training

   14. Article 35C - Information

   15. Section 5 – Representations

   16. Article 35D – Representations: Articles 34B to 35B

   17. Section 6 – Exclusion from benefits

   18. Section 7 – Minor and consequential amendments and repeals

   19. Section 8 - Interpretation

   20. Section 9 - Short title and commencement