Emotional Health and Wellbeing
Cared for Children (C4C)
Emotional wellbeing support for Oldham’s looked-after children
Early Break’s Cared for Children (C4C) team in Oldham offers free, specialist emotional health and wellbeing support for children and young people aged 5–25 who are looked after by Oldham local authority.
Our approach is voluntary and trauma-informed, with no pressure to engage. We build trusting relationships with each young person, and work collaboratively with their carers, social workers, schools and other professionals, to offer care that is consistent, goal-focused and meaningful.
Whether you’re looking to support a young person through emotional difficulties, life transitions, or build general confidence and resilience, we’re here to help.
What C4C Support in Oldham Includes
Support includes:
Monthly drop-ins – Open to all cared-for young people in Oldham, split by age group. No referral needed.
1-to-1 emotional wellbeing sessions – Flexible support using mindfulness, talking therapy techniques and creative methods.
Group work & peer support – Including safe spaces to explore identity, wellbeing, and shared experiences.
Goal-focused interventions – Building skills, confidence and emotional regulation.
Support during key transitions – Such as placement changes, school moves or preparing for independence.
Outreach delivery – We meet young people wherever suits them best, home, school, community or virtually.
Eligibility Criteria
Aged 5 to 25
Looked after by Oldham local authority
Cared-for children or care leavers
No formal diagnosis required
No referral required for drop-in sessions
Referrals for 1:1 or group work can come via professionals or through our referral system using the button below
Watch Our C4C Drop-in Video
Start a referral for C4C support in Oldham
When do the Cared for Children drop-ins take place?
Drop-ins are currently held for 5 - 25-year-olds every month
Please note that drop-in days and times are subject to change, and each session is relevant to a specific age range, so check the calendar. For the most current information, please refer to the events summary below.
Cared for Children FAQ’s
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It refers to children and young people looked after by the local authority, including those in foster care, kinship care, or residential settings.
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Yes, we offer support for care leavers up to age 25.
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Yes. Drop-ins are open access and don’t require a referral. They're split by age to ensure the right atmosphere for each group.
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They’re relaxed, welcoming spaces where young people can participate in activities, connect with peers, or simply talk to a trusted adult.
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Yes, unless there is a safeguarding concern. We explain confidentiality clearly to each young person and respect their privacy.
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That’s okay. Our service is completely voluntary. We never pressure or rush; support happens at their pace.
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Absolutely. We value joint working with social workers, virtual schools, carers and other teams to make sure support is aligned and effective.
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Wherever is best for the young person at home, school, community venues or our offices.
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You can stay connected to Early Break in various ways listed below:
Join our mailing list (we send out the occasional updates (nothing spammy) directly to your inbox)
Follow our social media accounts
Read our blog
Take part in our research
Undergo our training courses
Donate to the wellbeing fund
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If you or someone you know needs urgent help, you can access our list of emergency and useful helpline numbers by clicking the Get Help Now.
This will open a quick-reference popup with 24/7 services and support lines for mental health, safeguarding, substance use, and crisis care.
From the Blog
Here’s a selection of articles from the blog related to our Emotional Health & Wellbeing services.
