June 8, 2009

Standard: Working with Older Youth

Permanency planning for older youth is critical to ensure that youth successfully transition out of alternate care into living independently. Older youth should be provided with a seamless process of service planning and decision making that addresses permanency needs and independent-living skills development. Decisions concerning a youth's permanency plan are made on a case by case basis, taking into account the unique needs of the youth and the circumstances surrounding the youth's placement. Areas that a youth should thrive immediately include: identity formation, community connections, supportive relationships, physical and mental health, life skills, education, employment, and housing. This article provides direction and guidance to ensure a seamless process of case planning and decision making for older youth that addresses both the youth's permanency needs and independent living skills development in preparation for transition to adulthood.