ABSTRACT
Young people leaving care have been the subject of international research in the last decade, whilst in Africa studies are still few. The ability of young people to transition successfully from institutional care to independent living in society has become a policy concern. This is because of the documented poor outcomes of care leavers internationally and in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study (a thesis submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the Master of Social Science in Social Policy Degree at University College Cork, Ireland) explored the factors influencing the transition from care to independence in Harare, Zimbabwe. Utilising qualitative research methods and thematic analysis, the study identified a number of factors that affect young people from the view of social service professionals and residential care workers. Respondents were purposively selected and data was collected using semi-structured interviews, an online focus group and the use of observation. In Zimbabwe, the social service system has been affected since 2008, by the economic crisis and the effects of poverty and hardship has trickled down to affect the most vulnerable children and young people. The study found a number of factors which influence young people’s transitions from care in Harare. Among these were the young person’s previous circumstances, the role of the Department of Social Services, the role of the institution and the expectation of instant adulthood. Other contributing factors such as the capabilities of the young person and relationships with caregivers were mentioned by the respondents. The study made recommendations for more successful transitions from institutional care which include; recognising that care leavers are not a homogenous group and the need for improved knowledge of care leaver outcomes and transition processes for residential caregivers.
