The Freedom Card scheme is funded through Durham County Council and continues to be valued by children, young people and foster carers supporting children and young people. The aim of the scheme is to encourage and support children and young people to access community leisure, sports and cultural activities.
Freedom Card entitlement
All looked after children and young people who are the legal responsibility of Durham County Council up to their 18th birthday
Foster carers registered and paid for by Durham County Council along with their birth children up to their 18th birthday
Children and young people in the care of an Independent Fostering Agency
Care leavers up to the age of 18
You can download the full guidance below which also includes the current venues that accept the freedom card.Â
Freedom Card Guidance
To apply for a family, young person, IFA or Children’s Home freedom card you can download the forms below
Family Freedom Card
Young Person 14+
IFA
Family Freedom Card Application Form
Young Person 14+
IFA
Children's Home
Residential Unit
Care Leavers 18+
Once a care leaver turns 18, they can be supported by their Young Person Advisor (YPA) who will provide a letter to Durham County Council’s Leisure Centre(s) confirming their care leaver status in which they will receive a pass for that Leisure Centre.Â
Investing in Children Membership Awardâ„¢
The award gives organisations national recognition for actively including children and young people in dialogue that results in change. It involves hearing directly from children and young people: how they have a voice and contribute to changes. In June 2024 the Freedom Card gained the award which you can read below. If you would like to find out more about the award visit the Investing in Children website