Leaving care in Norway in a historic and current perspective: As a function of the Nordic welfare model

Abstract

Care leavers need support in the transition to adulthood. Care leavers in Norway benefit from the universalistic and somewhat generous Nordic welfare model. However, this model is constructed to meet general needs identified in the whole population. More specific needs in smaller groups may not be so well planned for. The article discusses this dilemma in the light of two previously published articles by the author and two co-authors, where the topics are the history of leaving care support in Norway and how the Nordic welfare model may represent a problematic frame for leaving care support. The “parental functions” of child welfare and social services are discussed, and so is the connection between the welfare model`s ability to cover up for the needs of the many versus the few and vulnerable.