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Applying for a Social Security number

National Insurance numbers are usually issued automatically, however as they are linked to child benefit payments this does not happen for children in care. Not having a National Insurance number can have a significant impact on independence (e.g. getting paid for work, benefits claims, etc.) and it is therefore important that an application is made on behalf of the looked after child as soon as they are eligible.

Who is entitled?

  1. Children who were born and have always been resident in Guernsey will get a social security number automatically at the age of 16.
  2. Children who have moved to Guernsey from the UK without local parents will not be eligible until they have lived here for 15 years.
  3. Children who have moved to Guernsey from the UK with local parents will not be eligible until they have lived here for 10 years in a 20 year period.
  4. This policy therefore relates to children who have moved to Guernsey.
  5. It is important that this process is completed to ensure young people in or leaving the care system are treated like other young people and are spared the prospect of having to undergo lengthier and more demanding procedures to establish their right to work.

Actions

 
TaskResponsible OfficerRecordTimescale
Request social security form, complete and return.Foster carers in receipt of family allowance and young personComputerAt any age
Request social security form, complete and return.Social worker and young personComputerFrom age 15
Receive reply from social security with the social security numberCarerN/AAs appropriate
Apply to Frossard House for an application for a right to work documentCarer and young personN/AWithin 5 working days
Complete and send the application backCarer and young personN/AWithin 5 days of receipt
Receive a right to work document and note social security numberYoung personN/AAs appropriate