Exploring the relationship between barriers surrounding continuity of provision and life trajectories for care leavers who choose to leave the local a

This research aims to contribute to the growing body of literature on the rights and experiences of care leavers and how they can best be supported to ensure equal opportunities with their peers.
Since the devolution of social care in Wales, law and policy concerning local authority duties towards care leavers has begun to diverge from that in England. This study will explore the emerging differences between these two social care systems in the context of devolution. To this end, my proposed research design will feature a mixed-methods approach, using semi-structured interviews with care leavers, social workers and other relevant support workers across local authorities in England and Wales. These interviews will explore the experiences and life trajectories of care leavers who have chosen to leave the local authority area and the perceptions of social workers and key workers regarding the logistical barriers that this may present.
After initial sampling, potential participants will be asked to complete a questionnaire to ensure that the sample group fit the criteria outlined below:
- Either a care leaver aged 18-30 who have moved out of the local authority area in which they were initially placed or who would have considered this an option with appropriate support; or
- A social worker or other relevant key worker who has experience of maintaining contact with a care leaver who has moved out of the local authority area in which they were initially placed.
Following this, a representative sample will be randomly selected for interview.
There is a potential risk of bias which I will need to remain aware of throughout the research as I am a former care leaver and experienced a difficult transition upon leaving care. I will need to ensure that this does not bias any perspectives offered by potential interviewees. However, this does mean that I have direct experience and understanding of how the care system operates in practice which gives me a unique perspective on barriers facing young care leavers in a similar position to myself.
My preferred outcome of this research would be to influence policy to break down barriers faced by care leavers who would like to positively enhance their life trajectories by accepting opportunities out of the local authority area. I would like this project to inform further research aimed at promoting more provision and support for care leavers so that the gap between them and their peers is reduced. Finally, I would like to encourage care leavers to accept opportunities further afield who may not do so without awareness of support networks enabling them to do so.