Implementation Determinants of Transition Planning in Residential Out-Of-Home Care: A Qualitative Study Using the...

Area of Science:

• Social Work
• Implementation Science
• Public Policy

Background:

• Transition planning is mandated for young people (YP) in residential out-of-home care (OoHC) to prepare them for independent living by age 18.
• Despite legal requirements, many YP face challenges and inequitable outcomes upon exiting OoHC, indicating implementation gaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify barriers and enablers influencing the implementation of transition planning for YP in OoHC.
• To determine strategies for improving the effectiveness of transition planning.

Main Methods:

• Semi-structured interviews and focus groups were conducted with 46 residential care and cross-sector staff in Victoria, Australia.
• Data analysis employed abductive coding guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR).

Main Results:

• Barriers and enablers were identified across all CFIR domains: Individual Characteristics, Outer Setting, Inner Setting, Innovation, and Implementation Process.
• Key determinants included workforce capability, perceived advantage of the planning process, and systemic/structural factors.

Conclusions:

• Enhancing the perceived benefits of transition planning is crucial.
• Strengthening staff capabilities and addressing systemic barriers are necessary for effective implementation.
• Future research should focus on developing and evaluating targeted implementation strategies.