A: Out-of-county placements are usually made after all other avenues locally have been exhausted. Most local authorities prefer looked-after children to stay close to home, but for some, the risks are too great or the specific type of care needed is not available. For many young people deemed vulnerable or at risk, a short, planned break away from their situation can be an opportunity for focused and therapeutic work.
Your manager may allow a one-off visit to the placement to reassure this young woman you're still available to her. However, a 400-mile round trip takes time and money, so there may be other ways of keeping in touch that could work equally well.
Write a letter or card to let her know you're thinking about her, arrange with her care provider to make regular phone calls, or send text messages if she has access to a mobile. I am sure she will be reassured by the effort you are making to keep in touch and this contact from her local area will help her feel less isolated.
Jeanie Lynch works for Barnardo's and has 25 years' experience of working with vulnerable children and families
Email questions, marked "Experts", to cypnow@markallengroup.com
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