Aftercare and Institutionalised Children: A Literature Review of International Best Practices and Lessons for SAARC Countries

Abstract

Aftercare programming is increasingly recognized as a key factor in successful transitions for institutionalized children to interdependent living. Successful Aftercare programs seek to increase key capacities in institutionalized children while providing the necessary duration of time for healthy transitions out of institutionalized care. Life skills, education and employment attainment, attachment, and permanency are all key program focuses developed between the age of majority (18) and discharge from programs. The challenge faced by Aftercare systems and programs is the continued provision of services to young adults within frameworks that seek to create immediate transitions at the age of 18 years. Young adults around the world are transitioning out of traditional familial support networks at an average age of 24 years, with connectivity to permanent supports, while young adults leaving care are expected to achieve immediate independence at the expiry of government mandates for involvement. This paper provides a literature review of international best practices in Aftercare along with a comparative analysis at program successes and gaps within SAARC member countries. This will be achieved through the use of peer-reviewed research, and individual program reviews of successful Aftercare programs.