In the UK, around half of young people still live with their parents at the age of 22—but care leavers often don’t have that option. For them, the transition to adulthood can be sudden and overwhelming. At Anima Residential Care, we believe this isn’t fair—and we’re working to change it.

When young people leave residential care at 18, they’re expected to manage all the responsibilities of adult life—navigating bills, education, and housing—often without the safety net others take for granted. Many have told us they feel isolated and alone as they try to cope with everything at once.

What young people value most is keeping the trusted relationships they’ve built with the professionals who’ve supported them. But maintaining those connections can be difficult once they leave care or their support is handed over to new services. That’s why our transition support focuses on removing these barriers through young person-led planning, helping them stay connected, confident, and supported as they move forward.