Children with experience of institutionalisation struggle during their transition to independent living because of the adverse effects of institutionalisation and the lack of social, emotional, and financial support systems necessary for a safe transition. They also often lack the safety net and buffer a supportive family offers, which puts them at a high risk of falling back into the vicious cycle of poverty.

The process of leaving care is a transnational and global challenge. Even though there are several variations between care-leaving policies and the availability of support worldwide, the challenges faced by Care Leavers are similar everywhere. While there is enough evidence to show that organisations that effectively engage with children and young persons in co-creating their practices are most effective, it must be ensured that such participation is true and not mere tokenistic in nature. The involvement of Care Leavers in policy making, decision making and working for their best interest is the best way that societies can contribute towards their betterment. This policy brief puts together the key guiding principles that all organisations working with and for care leavers must keep in mind, as expressed by Care Leavers themselves, during the 1st International Care Leavers Convention 2020.

The process of leaving care is a transnational and global challenge. Even though there are several variations between care-leaving policies and the availability of support worldwide, the challenges faced by Care Leavers are similar everywhere. Most countries lack a clear policy on leaving care. Care Leavers often become nobody’s responsibility and data systems in most countries are not well established. Consequently, most Care Leavers worldwide face challenges in housing, education, employment, mental health and psycho-social wellbeing and social support networks. A policy on leaving care must primarily aim to improve the life opportunities of Care Leavers as they transition to independent living. Any such policy must aim to improve their life outcomes and prepare them to leave care smoothly; support their active participation in decision making, and provide adequate and appropriate aftercare support. This policy brief puts together the key guiding principles that can support policy makers while developing policies on leaving care, as expressed by Care Leavers themselves, during the 1st International Care Leavers Convention 2020.