How can social workers and agencies best support young people as they make the transition from care to independent living? This authoritative study investigates the successes and failures of care services for young people, identifying factors that hinder effective transition from care and the types of support that help to promote positive life choices. Analysing current policy and drawing on the findings of past research, the authors explore the experiences of young people leaving the care of three very different Scottish local authorities to demonstrate how support works in practice. They address the impact of throughcare and aftercare services, and argue for a more gradual transition towards independence, combined with more consistent and ongoing support after young people leave care. This book draws on the Scottish context to offer valuable lessons that are important reading for all students and practitioners in the fields of social care and social policy, and other professionals interested in the development of childcare practice.About the Author: Jo Dixon is a Research Fellow in the Social Work Research and Development Unit (SWRDU), University of York. She has worked on a number of large-scale social research studies involving vulnerable children, young people and families. Mike Stein is Professor of Social Work and Director of the Social Work Research and Development Unit at the University of York. He was involved in the preparation of the Guidance on Leaving Care for the Children Act 1989 and the Children (Leaving Care) Act 2000, and has been consulted by government, local authorities and voluntary organisations on the development of leaving care services in the UK and internationally.