Hi all, I understand that this forum is intended for foster carers, however I wasn't sure where else to find an answer to my question as I've searched online and found nothing.
For context, I want to visit a friend in London for 3 nights in ~2 weeks time (I live in Wales, meaning London is roughly a 4 hours' drive away), however I'm concerned that my foster carers would not allow me to go, mainly as they believe I'm not responsible enough (Afaik, the only reason they believe this is that I neglected my chores for a few weeks as I was focusing on revision for my A-level exams, as I have never misbehaved, endangered others etc.) However, from a legal standpoint, do they have any power to prevent me from going? I'm well aware of the possible risks, and I would consider myself to be rather mature, which my foster carers agree with, and I'm also aware that normal 16 year olds have the right to leave without parent's permission, but would it be different considering I'm a foster child?
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Do I need permission from my carers to leave the house at 16?
Oricorio · 18/06/2023 03:25
Oricorio · 18/06/2023 04:31
It's one friend, who I knew from school but moved away. Also, I was not asking for anyone's opinions on the matter, because frankly they don't know enough about the situation, I was simply asking if my foster carers could theoretically prevent me. As I stated previously, I would inform my carers in advance, and it's quite literally no different than if I went on holiday with friends for a few nights, which is something plenty of people at my age do.
TeenDivided · 18/06/2023 05:42
How can you be doing revision for A level exams at 16?
You say 4hrs drive, but at 16 you can't drive so would this be the train?
Or are you 18?
That said, I agree with others. This isn't about legality it is about compromise (& procedure).
Your FC have a duty of care. Approach it like an adult. If they are reluctant to say yes, ask if there is anything you could do/say to lessen their concerns. Stropping off and going anyway won't make you seem adult in their eyes and my make them less cooperative about things like lifts or other support.
TeenDivided · 18/06/2023 05:42
How can you be doing revision for A level exams at 16?
You say 4hrs drive, but at 16 you can't drive so would this be the train?
Or are you 18?
That said, I agree with others. This isn't about legality it is about compromise (& procedure).
Your FC have a duty of care. Approach it like an adult. If they are reluctant to say yes, ask if there is anything you could do/say to lessen their concerns. Stropping off and going anyway won't make you seem adult in their eyes and my make them less cooperative about things like lifts or other support.
Oricorio · 18/06/2023 04:03
I doubt that they'd report me as missing, as I don't intend on just disappearing - Sorry, I should've made it clear that I would make them aware of where I am, and ensure them that I'm safe, as well as allowing them to speak to my friend's parents beforehand.
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