Supporting Young People Leaving State Care

Young people leaving state care face problems due to being institutionalised. They lack the skills and access to services necessary to live independent lives. Without anyone to care for them, they are at risk of abuse and exploitation and those with special needs are even more vulnerable.

Some face these difficulties when they leave care having finished their education and the state no longer has responsibility for them. Others are placed with their natural or foster family and the relationship between them breaks down and they find themselves alone. For many, life on the streets is the only option and this increases risk of other abuses such as trafficking.

Together with its partner organisation, Children on the Edge is working closely with the authorities of the Iasi region of Romania helping to change the pattern of institutionalisation. Ensuring that young people who developed in state care learn the necessary social and practical living skills and have access to the relevant services to allow them to live independently in society.