Bridging the gap: from care to home - Focus Ireland

‘‘It is imperative that all young
people in care are given the
opportunity to prepare for
independent living early.’’
with his new neighbourhood, including public transport and
community resources. The young person’s aftercare plan was
a useful professional tool used to break down, into
manageable tasks, the daunting process of moving home
incorporating areas such as budgeting, shopping, cooking,
laundry, health and fitness, training and employment.
This young person is now successfully engaged in training
and managing a tenancy where he is living independently.
Leaving foster care or residential care can be a difficult time
for a young person. Today it is not uncommon for young
adults to remain in their family home right into their late 20s.
However many of the young people we work with have a
greater urgency to reach independence at a more
accelerated level and become competent in managing a
home with little support. Young people leaving care have
been found to be at increased risk of homelessness as they
attempt to cope with the challenges and responsibilities of
leaving their placements and moving to independent living.
We begin to work with young people at the age of 16 years
and I feel it is imperative that all young people in care are
given the opportunity to prepare for independent living early
to lessen the emotional stress and fear associated with
moving once they turn 18.
Preparation and support are key for all young people who are
in care as this will enable them to move more successfully
into independent living and reach their goals.”
18 | FOCUS IRELAND |