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

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

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

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

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

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

   3. Section 3 – Personal advisers and pathway plans

      1. Article 34E – Personal advisers

      2. Article 34F – Pathway plans

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

      1. Article 35 – Persons qualifying for advice and assistance

      2. Article 35A – Advice and assistance

      3. Article 35B – Employment, education and training

      4. Article 35C - Information

   5. Section 5 – Representations

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

   6. Section 6 – Exclusion from benefits

   7. Section 7 – Minor and consequential amendments and repeals

   8. Section 8 - Interpretation

   9. Section 9 - Short title and commencement