‘I Don't Think I Would've Survived Without Having a Constant Support System’: Independent Living Skills Acquisition During the Transition From Care in Western Australia

Abstract

Listen

Translate article

ABSTRACTFor care‐experienced young people, the preparation for leaving out‐of‐home care (OOHC) is vital in support of post‐OOHC outcomes. This research explores the acquisition of Independent Living Skills (ILS) amongst young people in Western Australia and is based on interviews with care‐experienced young people at two time points: while in OOHC and after leaving OOHC. Overall, 72% of participants were female, 45% had a disability and 45% identified as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. Total years spent in care ranged from 2 to 16 years. This study adopts two research methods; first, using eight different domains to conceptualise the ILS needed in early adulthood, interview transcript data was cross‐referenced to understand the interconnected nature of ILS. Second, a thematic analysis was conducted of the interview transcripts to highlight participants' experiences. Findings highlight three themes relating to System Impacts, Social and Cultural Capital and Practical Identity and Self‐focus upon acquiring ILS. The findings address this Special Issue's sub‐themes, namely in relation to highlighting (1) examples of good policy and practice in transition planning and/or ongoing gaps in transitions from care policy, practice and implementation for 15–18 year olds/assisting care leavers aged 18–21 years and providing (2) lived experience perspectives.