Leaving care and getting your own place is a big step, so it's important that you're well prepared. Social services have a legal duty to help you prepare. Even though you might have had enough of people interfering in your life, it's important you get what you're entitled to.

Like anyone out there for the first time, you'll need to work out a budget and think about how you're going to pay for your accommodation before you leave. You may be able to get help to pay a deposit, and you can also apply for a community care grant to help you set up your own place, or a budgeting loan to pay rent in advance.

You'll probably be financially dependent on social services until you turn 18. Most care leavers can't claim housing benefit until then, although there are some exceptions. If you're renting privately, you'll be exempt from the restrictions that normally apply to people under 35, but only until you turn 22.

You may be eligible for temporary housing - either from social services or the Housing Executive. The Housing Executive has a legal duty to give housing advice and information on preventing homelessness to anyone who asks in Northern Ireland. Contact a local advice centre if you encounter any difficulty in getting the help you're entitled to receive.