* The Leaving and Aftercare Service in Essex was set up in response to the Children (Leaving Care) Act 2000 and offers a support and advice to young people leaving care aged from fifteen and a half up to the age of 21 (24 if still in full-time education).

* This is a developing service and staff working in the teams have the opportunity to work closely with young people to plan for their future and help to ensure that they fulfil their potential in life.

* Staff are involved in assessing young peoples' needs and working with them to produce plans that address all aspects of their lives - education, employment, accommodation, personal support, health, etc.

* As a new service there are exciting opportunities to be involved in identifying and developing resources to meet these needs in conjunction with colleagues from education, health, Connexions and the private and voluntary sector.