Developing and implementing an instrument aimed at measuring quality of life in young people

The project explores how integrated youth services are transforming the landscape of youth services by emphasizing continuity and flexibility in young people's care pathways. It promotes collaboration between different aid sectors with a focus on the needs of youth and their families. The research focuses on intersectoral collaboration, with specific attention to five sectors. It highlights the increasing pressure on organizations within youth aid to be accountable and introduces the concept of Quality of Life (QOL) as a measure of effective youth aid delivery. The research includes three work packages: developing QOL items and indicators, developing and validating a measurement tool, and integrating the results into practice and education. The goal is to create an instrument that not only enables pre- and post-measurement, but also acts as a practical work tool, facilitating dialogue between caregiver and adolescent. The focus on QOL enables social workers to better address the specific needs of young people and strengthen their legitimacy of action. The research also aims to integrate insights gained into various educational programs to prepare students for developments within youth welfare services. The measurement tool provides opportunities for research, education, practice and policy to approach the concept of outcomes-based work in youth services.