Abstract
Youth leaving care can be considered a vulnerable group given the limited preparation and support they tend to receive for independent living, exacerbated by the situation in South Africa where high numbers of young people are not in employment, education or training. The aim of the study was to explore challenges experienced, coping mechanisms employed, and support provided to care leavers who had transitioned from two state-run Child and Youth Care Centres (CYCCs) to independent living in Johannesburg. A qualitative research approach was employed, and interviews were conducted with 12 care leavers. The study was guided by the social ecological resilience theory and results were analysed using thematic analysis. The key findings that emerged were that care leavers experienced several challenges as they transitioned from care to independent living including housing instabilities and homelessness; insufficient food and clothing; not qualifying for help after reaching 18 years of age; struggles to continue with their education and find employment; limited social and emotional support systems; lack of preparation for care leaving; exacerbation of challenges for care leavers with special needs; and persisting challenges stemming from the reasons for admission to CYCCs. Coping mechanisms included drawing on personal motivation and inner strength; crying; spirituality; and networking. The study also found that care leavers did not receive support from the CYCCs. The transition left care leavers experiencing feelings of frustration, sadness and hopelessness from the sudden complete change from having everything they needed to having nothing at all with which to continue living their lives. These findings highlight the lacunae in services for youth beyond the age of 18 years which represent an issue of social justice; and the need for policy changes regarding preparation of care leavers for independent living.
M.Phil. (Social Policy and Development)