Experiences of Finnish care leavers of their involvement in the aftercare services for child welfare clients.

Abstract

Children and young people placed in out-of-home care form a vulnerable group. Their involvement in decision making of their future is undermined by the lack of a safe adult security net and the brevity of the period in which they are supposed to gain independence. Although there are some studies showing that the opportunity to affect the decision making is insufficient, there are no studies about how the involvement might actually be developed. This study describes young people s experiences of their involvement and the developmental needs for it in aftercare services for child welfare clients. The design was that of a qualitative explorative study. In total, 16 care leavers participated in the study. Data were collected by thematic interviews in autumn 2016 and analysed by qualitative content analysis. Good value-based collaboration with the staff and the possibility of mental, concrete and social support enhanced the young people s active involvement in their lives. The topics the interviewees wanted to see developed included the core values in the aftercare services, the comprehensiveness of the support and a future-oriented approach. Collaborative relationships should, it emerged, be based on individuality, equality, fairness, trust, a non-judgmental attitude, flexibility and safety and a general approach valuing, respecting, listening to and empowering the young person. Support should be provided with a comprehensive approach and in a multiprofessional and coordinated manner. The transition period to an independent life should be extended and carefully prepared, with an option for the continuity of the collaboration with the employees if needed.