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Leaving care programs locally and internationally: Towards better outcomes

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 February 2016

Philip Mendes*
Affiliation:
Department of Social Work, Monash University, Building B, Caulfield Campus, PO Box 197, Vic 3145
Chris Goddard
Affiliation:
Department of Social Work, Monash University, Building B, Caulfield Campus, PO Box 197, Vic 3145

Abstract

Historically, insufficient resources and assistance have been provided to young people leaving state care. Young people leaving care have been found to experience homelessness, unemployment, early parenthood, loneliness, depression, poverty, and involvement with the juvenile justice system.

In recent years, a growing body of research literature has explored the experiences of young people leaving care, and the identification of key factors underlying good after care support practice. Attention is drawn to some of the key findings of this research such as the need for a more gradual and flexible process of transition to independence, specific legislation providing for the ongoing support of care leavers, and the provision of formal and properly resourced after-care services. Reference is also made to the key role played by consumer advocacy groups in facilitating the successful transition to independence of care leavers.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2000

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