John Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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Question 72: To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of young persons who currently avail of aftercare, support for children in care after they turn 18 years of age; the way many aftercare workers are currently employed; the locations in which those workers are based; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26036/11]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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In 2011, the Health Service Executive (HSE) commissioned a review of the capacity for alternative care services, including Aftercare services. An audit was undertaken last March and the HSE has provided the following information based on this audit.

A total of 1,051 young people were in receipt of aftercare nationally at March 2011. The breakdown between male and female was 46% and 54% respectively.

Aftercare provision incorporates advice, guidance and practical support. An individual holistic needs assessment identifies a young persons need for accommodation, financial support, social network support and training and education. One of the key features of Aftercare support is to advocate on behalf of young people to promote their development as a fulfilled adult in their community. The most important requirements for young people leaving care are for secure, suitable accommodation as well as further education, employment or training.

Finally, information on the numbers of aftercare workers employed and their location is not currently accessible and I am informed that the HSE is in the process of collecting this data.