Care Leaving in Czech Republic - Young People Voice

Hana Pazlarova
Department of Social Work, Faculty of Arts, Charles University, Prague

Care leaving in critical part of children social protection system in many countries. Many young adults have difficulties after leaving care. The presentation summarizes the results of two studies focused on the experience of young people after leaving the care in the Czech Republic. The first study, conducted as peer-research interviews, includes 30 young people (19-29 years of age) focuses on various aspects of their life after leaving care. A second study of 12 young people (21-28 years) examines the impact of work experience on theit social inclusion after leaving care. The results of both studies provide a picture of the situation of young people after leaving the care in the Czech Republic. The implications of the findings for further research and for child welfare practice and policy and research are explored.