The Role of Opinions and Voices of At-Risk Youth in Transforming Residential Welfare Homes

Understanding the perspectives of at-risk youth within residential welfare homes is vital for improving the quality of care and support provided. These homes serve as crucial environments for individuals navigating challenging circumstances, offering a temporary or long-term refuge and support system. Despite their intended role in providing care and stability, there remains a gap in understanding the lived experiences and unique needs of the youths within these facilities. This study explored the perspectives of at-risk youth who are currently staying in a residential welfare home concerning their experiences and sought for recommendations to improve the residential welfare homes. Twenty at-risk youths with various backgrounds were chosen and purposive sampling was employed to ensure that a diverse pool of at-risk youths with different periods of experience staying in a residential welfare home was selected. Personal interviews were conducted to understand their experiences and suggestions better. The themes emerged based on the experiences are standard of living, strengthening relationships and within the self. Next themes emerged for changes suggested by the at-risk youths include conducting various programmes, creating a homely environment, improving the quality of care, increasing privileges, setting reasonable rules, and improve home facilities. The study’s findings provide insights into the participants’ views of staying in a residential welfare home and improving the quality of care. By synthesizing key findings and highlighting promising practices, this research offers valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders seeking to optimize the well-being and resilience of vulnerable youth in residential settings.