Supporting young people transition from care to independence: Exploring the impact of coaching in Uniting's youth transitions programs

When young people exit out-of-home care, they face high rates of social and economic marginalisation, as well as poor health and educational outcomes. Although there is limited longitudinal research available on the specific types of post-care support that are most effective, a number of smaller studies show that young people can avoid these negative life trajectories if provided with assistance and advice as they transition from care to independence. Uniting NSW.ACT delivers multiple programs designed to support young people as they transition from care to adulthood, including Foyer Central, the Extended Care Pilot Program, the Premier's Youth Initiative and Futures Support and Planning (led by the Burrun Dalai Aboriginal Corporation in partnership with Uniting). This article draws on evidence from the independent evaluations of each of these programs to explore the nature of the coaching relationship and to argue that it should indeed be adopted in NSW, due to its beneficial impact on young people and ability to help them achieve positive outcomes in housing, employment and education.