Epic Steps! Well prepared for leaving care
Leaving a care home is a crucial turning point in young people's lives - and one that is often fraught with uncertainty. The research project "Epic Steps!" is funded by the Palatin Foundation. An additional contribution is provided by the Erich Göhner Foundation. The Co-lead of Nija Böckler, Game Design at ZHdK, and Stefan Eberitzsch, Social Work at ZHAW, combines social pedagogical research with innovative game design.
People who have spent part of their lives in foster care or residential care and want to live independently are called care leavers. This transition from care is a significant and often challenging step for young people. They face structural disadvantages and need targeted support. The research and development project Epic Steps! is developing a new, game-based educational series to promote self-efficacy during the transition to adulthood.
The educational series, consisting of an game and extensive didactic materials for professionals, is being developed in a participatory manner with care leavers, professionals and young people from three care homes. The analogue game will provide young people with a low-threshold access to key issues related to leaving care.
A pilot phase will test the format under real-life conditions, after which it will be finalised and distributed free of charge through the Leaving Care Competence Centre. Dissemination will take place through a conference, a website and a specialist publication.