Leaving Care and After Care Service (LCAC Service)

The LCAC service is available to Looked After Children between the age of 16-18years and those young people who are post 18 years and meet the thresholds under the aftercare legislation.  It also provides support and advice for the young homeless aged 16 years and over who have been assessed  as a young person “in need” by the Gateway Service.

The team provides opportunities to enhance outcomes for the young people in respect of their education, health development and independent living skills. The team also provides a variety of support services based on the assessed needs of the young person as well as signposting and supporting them in accessing community based services. We also consult with young people and care leavers and incorporate their views and experiences into the planning and development of the service.

“Our aim is to ensure young people in the care system are given every opportunity and support to achieve their full potential in life as they progress through to adulthood.” 


  • Referral

    There are three locality LCAC Teams, and the Team Leader in each locality will receive referrals from the Gateway Service, Child and Family Teams and Intensive Support Team Family Intervention Teams.

    Young people post 18 years who meet the criteria under the aftercare legislation can self-refer for support services. For more information on referral please contact your local office.

Four teenagers watching sunset

Contact Details

Operational Hours Monday for Friday 9am to 5pm (excluding Public and Bank Holidays)

Children’s Services

Downshire Estate
Ardglass Road
Downpatrick
BT30 6RA

Call us(028) 4451 3937  

Family Resource Centre

James Street
Newtownards
Co Down
BT23 4EP

Call us(028) 9181 8518

Lisburn Primary Community Care Centre

Level 3
Lisburn Primary Community Care Centre
Lagan Valley Hospital Site
39 Hillsborough Road
Lisburn
BT28 1JP

Call us(028) 9262 7400

Out of Hours

Regional Emergency Social Work Service

Call us(028) 0800 197 9995