Leaving care - information for carers
This information is to support carers who are helping a young person move to independence from out-of-home care.
To ensure young people leaving care can achieve optimal success, the preparation for their transition to independence needs to be carefully considered. It should form part of ongoing of personal development and be started early so a plan is in place in good time before the young person leaves care, or their Custody or Guardianship order expires.
Young people need both time and experience to learn the skills necessary for successful independent living. They learn through observation, role modelling, practice and support, through experiences which result in success and failure.
Out-of-home carers, whether in their own homes or residential units, play a critical role to in help young people in their care develop the skills to grow into mature adults.
The Department of Human Services recognises that carers also play a very important role in planning for young people as they enter the final phase of their child protection order. Carers help young people plan for their future, identify their needs and re-assure them of the supports available to them as they move to independence.
