The Ministry for Social Policy and Children’s Rights is in the final stages of introducing an After-Care Policy designed to support young people transitioning out of residential child care. The initiative aims to offer greater stability, reassurance, and improved life opportunities for individuals who, due to various circumstances, spent their formative years in alternative care settings.
This development was announced by the Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights, Michael Falzon, during the signing of an agreement with the Salesians, who operate two residential homes for children.
Minister Falzon highlighted that this agreement forms part of a broader network of 37 social agreements established between the Ministry and community organisations. He emphasized that the forthcoming after-care policy has been shaped through consultations with stakeholders and informed by the lived experiences of young people who have been in care.
He further explained that the Ministry is committed to strengthening after-care and mentoring structures, noting that collaboration with the Salesians has been ongoing for the past six years. In addition to existing agreements with NGOs, the policy seeks to ensure continued support for young individuals who are unable to return to their biological families.
The President of the National Federation Don Bosco, Bryan Magro, pointed out that many children and adolescents entering residential care have experienced trauma and hardship that can have long-term effects. Through dedicated support and mentoring, these young people are helped to rebuild resilience, regain stability, progress academically, and eventually transition into independent adulthood, with the capacity to contribute positively to society.
This latest agreement represents the third collaboration with the National Federation Don Bosco, which manages two residential facilities: the Marvelli residence in Raħal Ġdid and the Carlo Gastini residence in Valletta. The agreements aim to provide operational stability and reassurance for both homes.