Supported Independent Living Services

Young people under the guardianship and protection of the Department of Child Safety have been identified as being “at risk” of experiencing problems when exiting from care. The transition process itself for young people in care can be highly problematic, with young people often finding themselves "out-of-care" but with limited knowledge and support to assist them in their beginning stages of adulthood. Because such issues face adolescents transitioning out of care, the development of independent living skills and support programs is vital.

Service Delivery

TransCare is a supported independent living skill service for 15 to 18 year olds who require support and skill development in their transition from care. TransCare provides accommodation and support where concerns about a young person's ability to effectively transition to independence are identified.

As a young person progresses through their developed plan and skills are acquired, a reduction in level of support occurs until the young person is able to live successfully without support within the community. For a young person who is placed in a sole-occupancy residential, co-tenancy will occur as the young person develops successful social and behavioural skills that support and aid their ability to do so.

TransCare also provides support and intervention to young people who are self-placed or in alternative forms of accommodation.

Support & Intervention Domains

A young person's Transition to Independence plan centres around support and intervention within the following domains:

• Personal Development
  • Health & Hygiene
  • Personal goals and regulating personal motivation
  • Prevention programs including substance abuse
  • Sexuality
  • Decision making
  • Self confidence
  • Cultural/religious/spiritual exploration

• Emotional and Behavioural Management
  • Counselling
  • Increased insight into difficulties and self-awareness
  • Strategy development
  • Self-esteem
  • Safety

• Education and Employment
  • Study skills
  • Education pathways and opportunities
  • Employment preparation
  • Job seeking and job maintenance skills

• Life Skills
  • Nutrition and meal preparation
  • Housing and home duties
  • Money management and budgeting
  • Emergency and safety skills
  • Transportation skills

• Social & Family Relationships
  • Facilitating healthy family interactions
  • Communication & conflict resolution
  • Identification and building of positive peer relationships
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Assertiveness training and increased ability to advocate for self

• Community Engagement
  • Knowledge of community resources
  • Participation in community programs