This list has been put together by young people who have attended participation groups for care-experienced children and young people facilitated by Surrey Youth Voice. The young people who created this list were aged between 13 and 25 years old and have care experience.
Whilst this list was created by care-experienced children and young people and those who have left care, it is important to note that these are only examples of alternative words and phrases that can be used. Young people feel that it is the decision of each individual child or young person to decide which words, phrases or terminology should be used.
We have listed these words alphabetically and have included a definition to help explain what the word means if you feel it will help the young person you are working with or helping. Some of these terms required additional notes and comments, in these sections are direct quotes from the young people who created this list.
The direct quotes from young people are based on their own individual thoughts, and are not reflective of all care-experienced children and young people.
A to Z
I
In Care
Meaning: a child is "in care" if they are in the care of the local authority for more than 24 hours. Children can be in care by agreement with parents or by order of a court. Most children in care are safe from harm and do well, with strong plans to ensure that their needs are met. Children in care have many different experiences prior to becoming looked after, and this increases their vulnerability.
Preferred:
- Another from my family
- Another home away from home
- Getting help and support away from home
- Home away from home
- In placement
- Living with a different family in a different home
- Looked after child
- Second home
Isolation
Meaning: the act of separating something from other things : the act of isolating something.
Preferred:
- Alone time
- Being away from everyone
- Private time
- Reflection time
- Time away from others
- Time out