Young People Transitioning from Out-of-home Care in Victoria: Strengthening Support Services for Dual Clients of Child Protection and Youth Justice |
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Authors: | Philip Mendes Susan Baidawi Pamela C Snow |
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Institution: | 1. Social Inclusion and Social Policy Research Unit, Department of Social Work, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia philip.mendes@monash.edu;3. Social Inclusion and Social Policy Research Unit, Department of Social Work, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia;4. School of Psychology and Psychiatry, Faculty of Nursing, Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia |
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Abstract: | AbstractA significant proportion of young people leaving out-of-home care make their transition to independence via the youth justice system, exposing them to further risks and reducing their likelihood of full social and economic engagement in mainstream society. This article presents the initial findings of a research project based on a partnership between Monash University and seven nongovernment child and youth welfare agencies in Victoria, Australia. Seventy-seven key stakeholders participated in interviews and focus groups with a view to identifying practices and policies that could reduce the over-representation of young people leaving out-of-home care in the youth justice system. Factors that contributed to offending included varied responses by the child protection and youth justice systems, limited utility of leaving care plans, and the availability of a range of preventative and diversionary programs. The findings point to a need for more formalised interagency collaboration, and intensification of the interventions and supports offered both in custodial settings and post discharge from custody or care. |
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Keywords: | Leaving Care Out-of-home Care Youth Justice Juvenile Justice |
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