Session 12/13 Teenagers and Leaving the Institution

Topic C: Preparing aftercare

Leaving the institution to start an independent life is often a major problem – the loneliness experienced by young people can be especially stressing, and this calls for an aftercare system. However, in many countries – even the “rich” ones – an aftercare system is not available when the professional relation ends. This is a sad fact since many studies point to the fact that aftercare has a very positive effect on young people after the period at an institution has ended.

You can foresee problems after leaving the institution by contacting authorities a few years before the care period is ending, and recommend aftercare. In some countries young people have mentors who see them regularly when they have left care, and help them cope with daily life. Research also indicates that when young people leave an institution, they do better if they have a peer group – if they for example are living in a house with other young people where there are a few professionals who help them with daily tasks.

You can also discuss with the young people how to prepare for living an independent life after leaving the institution, including a plan for what will happen.