Features of Service Delivery that Young People in Out-of-Home Care Who ‘Self-place’ and Stay in Unapproved Placements Value When Accessing a Specialist Support Service

Abstract

Young people under child protection orders are a vulnerable group and their vulnerability and risk of exploitation increases if they leave approved out-of-home care placements (residential and foster care) and stay in unapproved arrangements. These arrangements are often temporary, insecure and may expose young people to exploitation and harm. Despite their heightened vulnerability, there are limited specialised services that work alongside this cohort of young people. There is a dearth of evidence regarding their needs and effective service responses. These gaps are compounded by the absence of young people’s voices in the literature and policy discussions; with implications for recognising their human rights. This paper reports on the views of thirteen young people who have accessed support via a specialist service in Queensland (Australia), specifically funded by the Queensland Government to provide support to ‘self-placing’ young people (12–18 years). The service aims to improve young people’s resilience, capability, and safety so they can either return to an approved OOHC placement or be supported to make safe and sustainable choices for independent accommodation. This paper reports on interview and survey data about their features of service delivery that young people who self-place value in a specialist support service. The findings highlight the importance of: (1) accessible and responsive support; (2) caring and trusting relationships with workers; (3) supporting young people’s choices and their developing agency; and (4) advocacy and support navigating systems.