DISCOVER “Getting the Life You Want”: Mixed methods pilot study of a new emotional wellbeing programme for care experienced young people

Background: Leaving the care system heightens the vulnerability of care experienced young people (CEYP), and all-too-often signals a cliff-edge in support. There is a lack of evidence-based psychological interventions for CEYP and they face numerous challenges in accessing what is available. Objectives: This study explored the feasibility, accessibility, acceptability, and outcomes of a novel intervention – DISCOVER “Getting the Life You Want” (GtLYW) – that has been developed for and with CEYP aged 16–19. GtLYW is rooted in psychological theory and coaches CEYP in skills to boost their emotional wellbeing. Method: GtLYW was evaluated using a mixed methods design. YP completed emotional wellbeing measures pre- and post-intervention, as well as giving feedback about taking part. Social care professionals completed a semi-structured interview and their responses were examined using interpretive phenomenological analysis. Results: Twenty-one CEYP were referred to GtLYW, ten signed up to take part and seven completed the programme. GtLYW was not associated with change in depression or wellbeing, but there were significant improvements in anxiety (t(6) = 3.34, p = .016) and mindfulness (t(6) = −4.84, p = .003) over time. Five social care professionals reflected on their experiences of GtLYW, including access barriers that CEYP face, valued intervention characteristics and ways to enable more meaningful engagement. Conclusions: Promising outcome data and feedback from CEYP and social care staff indicate that GtLYW warrants larger-scale investigation. Future ways to improve GtLYW uptake and delivery are discussed that also have value for any emotional wellbeing support offered to this at-risk group.