Ask Sam letter

Hi there,

Everyone has the right to some privacy. The closer to being an adult you are, the more privacy you should get. When you’re younger, your parents or carers might need to know that you’re okay which may mean invading your privacy. But as you become an adult you should get more privacy. 

You’re at an age when they may not realise how much privacy you actually need now. The important thing here is to say how you feel about it and to make sure they know how important it is for you to have your own space.

If your foster carers aren’t listening or you feel that you can’t come to an agreement then your social worker would be the right person to speak to. They’ll be used to sorting out issues like this. They can answer any questions that you may have.

You’ve got the right to be able to see your social worker regularly and speak with them on your own. You can talk about what's been happening and how you’re feeling about your carers. If you feel that what's happening to you is not fair, you should tell someone.

If you feel that your social worker is not listening to you, or you just find it difficult to talk to them there are some advocacy services which can support you. These services can help you complain if you feel that things are not right for you, or if you feel that you are being treated unfairly. There are a few different advocacy services in the UK such as Coram Voice, National Youth Advocacy Service, and if you’re in Scotland Who Cares?

If you wanted to complain about your care then you can use our online form to report what’s happened to the Care Quality Commission. They are there to make sure your carers are doing what they should be.

You may like to speak to a counsellor or talk to other young people on the message boards with similar experiences, so you don't feel alone with all that is happening and how you're feeling.

Take care.
Sam