Leaving Care

It is an essential read for those involved in public care and not one which should dishearten and prevent us from promoting change. It brings forth clear messages, not just from research, but also from the young people themselves. -- Journal of Social Work
Since the 1980's Mike Stein and colleagues have played a big part in putting the issue of leaving care on the policy agenda and keeping it there. They have produced an excellent body of published work on the topic, to which this book (co-authored with Jo Dixon) provides a valuable addition…The book is very clearly organised and presents its findings in an accessible way. -- Adoption and Fostering
The book is well structured. Services are examined first from the local authority's perspective and then backed up (or not) by testimonies from care leavers. There is quantitative data from the research questionnaire, which provides statistical backup throughout…Throughcare and aftercare in Scotland is a useful reminder of the role of the throughcare and aftercare sevices in intervening, as most parents would, to help facilitate positive outcomes for young people leaving care. -- Children and Society
As with Mike Stein's other work, this is a rigorous, well-written and accessible study that includes important points for policy and practice. I could see no noticeable weaknesses. Young people's own views are well represented and it makes a valuable contribution to services in Scotland and elsewhere. -- British Journal of Social Work