Imagine for a moment, you’re 18 years old, leaving the only home you’ve known – a care home. You’re stepping out into the world, ready to take on life’s challenges, but there’s one hurdle you didn’t expect: finding a place to call your own. This is the reality for many young care leavers in Malta, a challenge that the ‘Transition to Independence’ project is now tackling head-on.
Understanding the Challenge
The transition from care to independent living is a significant milestone, but it’s not without its obstacles. Affordable housing is a nationwide issue, but for young care leavers, it’s a mountain to climb. They often lack the financial means, the necessary life skills, or the support network to secure a stable home.
According to a local social worker, who wished to remain anonymous, “We’re seeing young people leaving care, full of hope and ambition, but they’re quickly faced with the harsh reality of Malta’s housing market. It’s a struggle that can derail their plans and leave them feeling overwhelmed.”
The ‘Transition to Independence’ Project
The ‘Transition to Independence’ project, launched by the Ministry for Families, Children’s Rights and Social Welfare, aims to bridge this gap. The project provides a range of services, from housing support to life skills training, to help young care leavers of independent living.
At the heart of the project is the ‘Step Up’ initiative, which offers temporary accommodation in shared houses. These homes, scattered across Malta, provide a safe and supportive environment for young people to develop the skills they need to live independently.
One of the homes, located on Triq il-Kbira in Rabat, has become a hub of activity. Here, young care leavers are learning to cook, clean, manage their finances, and even how to maintain a household budget. It’s a far cry from the institutional setting they’re used to, but it’s a vital step in their journey to independence.
The project is still in its early stages, but the impact is already tangible. Young care leavers are gaining confidence, developing essential life skills, and, most importantly, finding a place to call their own.
A young participant, who asked not to be named, shared, “I never thought I’d have a place like this to call home. It’s given me the space to grow, to make mistakes, and to learn. I finally feel like I have a future.”
As the project continues to grow, it’s clear that it’s not just about providing a roof over someone’s head. It’s about giving young care leavers the tools they need to build a life, to create a future, and to truly call Malta home.
