The Safe and Responsible Exit (SRE) Guidance developed by Catholic Relief Services (CRS) provides a structured framework for organizations transitioning away from financial and technical support of residential care facilities (RCFs). Rooted in CRS’s Strategic Change Platform Five (SCP5), the area of CRS’ work that strengthens families and supports children to thrive, this guidance emphasizes ethical divestment that prioritizes child safety and supports ongoing care reform. It outlines four critical investment areas—workforce strengthening, procedures emphasizing child protection and best interests of the child, disability-inclusive transition, and sector connectivity—as foundational pillars for a responsible exit and proposes achievable minimum criteria that define a responsible endpoint. The guidance includes tools for participatory stock-taking, action planning, and progress tracking, enabling organizations to assess readiness and implement targeted activities that ensure continuity and sustainability of transition efforts.
Recognizing the global shift toward family- and community-based care, the guidance aligns with international standards and evidence underscoring the developmental risks of institutional care. It offers practical recommendations for engaging stakeholders, coordinating with local governments, and embedding safeguarding and gatekeeping mechanisms. Special attention is given to children with disabilities, advocating for inclusive planning and service mapping. The document also encourages leveraging networks and platforms such as the Transforming Children’s Care Global Collaborative to foster shared learning and support. Overall, the SRE guidance equips organizations with actionable strategies to exit responsibly while reinforcing systemic change and child protection.
