How can transition planning be implemented to improve outcomes for young people in residential out-of-home care?

Adolescents living under Child Protection guardianship receive a practice called “transition planning” from age 15 to prepare them for adulthood at 18. Despite this support, many experience poor outcomes after leaving care, including homelessness. This thesis examines how transition planning can be improved to better meet adolescents’ needs. It finds that many adolescents do not benefit from the practice because it is not consistently delivered as intended, is poorly suited to diverse needs, and is complex to deliver. The thesis identifies various barriers that need to be addressed, and outlines practical recommendations to strengthen transition planning in practice.