< Back to all news

Transitioning from a children’s care home to adulthood

Transitioning from a children's care home to adulthood can be a challenging and daunting experience for many young people. However, with the right support and preparation, this transition can also be an exciting and empowering experience that sets the foundation for a bright future. In this blog post, we'll discuss some of the key factors that can help young people successfully navigate this transition and achieve their goals as they move into adulthood.

First and foremost, it is important for young people to have a clear understanding of their rights and responsibilities as they prepare to leave care. This includes knowledge of their eligibility for support from local authorities, as well as their rights to housing, education, and employment. Additionally, they should have a good understanding of their own strengths and weaknesses, and what they need to do in order to build a successful future. It's crucial for youth who are transitioning out of care to have access to accurate information about their rights and responsibilities, so they can make informed decisions about their future. This includes an understanding of the support available to them from local authorities and other organizations, as well as information about their eligibility for services such as housing, education, and employment. Having a clear understanding of their rights can help these young people navigate the often complex and challenging systems they will encounter as they work towards independence.

Additionally, young people should have a good sense of their own strengths and weaknesses, so they can identify areas where they need support, and take steps to build on their strengths and address their weaknesses. For example, they may need to develop certain skills in order to secure employment or pursue higher education. Understanding their own strengths and weaknesses can also help them set realistic goals and create a plan to achieve them.

The pandemic also brought an influx of cases to the system from young people in either unsafe situations or whose family situation deteriorated due to hospitalisation or loss of key carers. The impact of this influx is still felt today. More than 1 in 5 foster parents have considered quitting their role in fostering and 27% have expressed reluctance or inability to continue fostering due to fears of covid infection. With fewer foster carers and the backlog of court hearings, means more children are unable to leave the system.

Another important factor is having a strong support network. This can include care workers, family members, and other trusted adults who can provide guidance and advice during this time of transition. Having a supportive network can also help to mitigate feelings of loneliness and isolation that can arise during this time.

Education and training are also critical components of a successful transition from care to adulthood. Young people should be encouraged to pursue further education or vocational training, and to gain the skills and experience necessary to succeed in the workforce. In some cases, young people may also benefit from mentorship programs that connect them with successful adults who can offer advice and guidance.

Finally, it is important for young people to have a sense of stability and security as they move into adulthood. This may involve securing stable and affordable housing, developing a strong network of friends and support, and building a strong sense of community and belonging.

In conclusion, the transition from a children's care home to adulthood can be challenging, but with the right support and preparation, it can also be an exciting and empowering experience. By focusing on their rights and responsibilities, building a strong support network, pursuing education and training, and establishing stability and security, young people can successfully navigate this transition and achieve their goals as they move into adulthood.