SUPPORTING EQUITABLE TRANSITIONS TO ADULTHOOD FOR YOUTH IN CARE IN BRITISH COLUMBIA: A POST-PANDEMIC OVERVIEW
Policy Brief
Prepared by:
Kyle Turone, Bachelor of Social Work Program, School of Social Work,
University of Victoria
Melanie Doucet, PhD, Child Welfare League of Canada
This policy brief discusses the increase in post-care supports for B.C.’s youth in care during and after the pandemic, and also touches on the reform initiatives undertaken in other provinces and territories. The authors recommend transitioning away from age-based extended care approaches and into frameworks based on individual youth readiness. The brief includes concrete policy recommendations to both B.C.’s Ministry of Children and Family Development and to the Government of Canada that will greatly improve outcomes for youth in care transitioning to adulthood.