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CHALLENGES AND BEST PRACTICES IN SOCIAL WORK FOR YOUNG PEOPLE LEAVING THE CHILD PROTECTION SYSTEM
Abstract
The transition of young people from the child protection system to adult life represents an especially vulnerable stage, marked by significant social, economic, and psychological challenges. The absence of family support networks, limited access to housing, restricted integration into the labor market, and persistent social stigma are among the most frequent difficulties encountered during this process of gaining independence. This study aims to explore these challenges and to identify and analyze best practices in social work that support a sustainable and effective transition to independent living. The research methodology combines a documentary analysis of the legal framework and specialized literature with qualitative empirical research, based on semi-structured interviews conducted with both care leavers and social work professionals. The findings highlight the importance of implementing personalized and integrated interventions, including mentoring, psychological counseling, life skills development, and interinstitutional cooperation. The study formulates a set of recommendations aimed at developing coherent public policies and tailored social interventions, with a focus on post-institutional support and local community involvement. Overall, the research contributes to establishing a best-practice model for promoting the social and professional inclusion of young people leaving the child protection system.
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