Challenges, Agency and Ecology in the Transition of Youth from State Residential Care to Independent Living in Johannesburg, South Africa

Abstract In South Africa, youth leaving care can be considered a vulnerable group given the limited preparation and support they tend to receive for independent living, exacerbated by the high numbers of young people who are not in employment, education or training. The study explored challenges experienced, coping mechanisms employed, and support provided to care leavers who had transitioned from state residential care to independent living in Johannesburg, South Africa. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 12 care leavers. Key findings included the challenge of housing problems; insufficient food and clothing; and struggles to continue with their education and find employment. Care leavers exercised agency and resilience by drawing on personal motivation; crying; spirituality; and networking. Factors in the social-ecological environment that contributed to care leavers’ challenges included not qualifying for help after reaching 18 years of age; and a lack of formal emotional and material support or preparation before, during and after the transition These findings represents an issue of social justice and have implications for policy, practice and further research.