Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 July 2016
461. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs further to Parliamentary Question Nos. 239 and 240 of 26 April 2016, the accommodation status, if known, of the young persons who left State care and were not allocated an aftercare worker; if it is known if any of these young persons entered homelessness; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22959/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraAt the end of March 2016, there were 1,858 young adults of all ages (i.e., 18 years and upwards, and inclusive of those 25 or older) in receipt of aftercare services. Of the 1,858 young adults, 1,754 (94%) were aged 18-22 years (inclusive). During the first three months of 2016, 121 young adults were discharged from care due to reaching 18 years. 97% of these were eligible for an aftercare service and 91% were availing of a service. Of those availing of a service, 90% had an allocated aftercare worker.
The data on the current accommodation of young persons involved with after care supports is not available of the format referred to by the Deputy. Tusla details in their report for the first quarter of 2016, that the vast majority of 18-22 years olds in receipt of an aftercare service were residing in some form of stable accommodation. 48% of those care leavers remained living with their foster carers, 26% were living independently, 10% returned home, 3% were living in supported lodgings and 5% were living in residential centres. 8% were living in other types of less stable accommodation.
Findings from research show that homelessness amongst care leavers is most likely to occur some years following discharge from care. The Child Care (Amendment) Act 2015 allows for an eligible adult (those aged 18, 19 or 20 years who have spent 12 consecutive months in care between the ages of 13 and 18) to apply for an aftercare plan.
