Independent Living Support for At-Risk Children and Adolescents: Gaps and Policy Implications

Abstract

‘Youth in preparation for independent living’ as the category of individuals for whom ‘independent living support’ is intended is so narrowly circumscribed as to include only those discharged from foster care facilities, group homes, or foster care homes that are under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Health and Welfare, leaving a great many other youth in need of support excluded. While there are some youth who have lived under the care of more than two of the child protection, adolescent protection, and juvenile protection systems, it is those discharged from the latter two who are assessed to be more vulnerable as they prepare for independent living and thus in greater need of support. This study discusses ways to provide support to all at-risk children and adolescents who, upon discharge from facilities under child welfare, adolescent protection, or juvenile protection, require independent living support as they transition into adulthood.