“So what am I?” — Multiple perspectives on young people's experience of leaving care

• Focus groups were held with young people and professionals.
• These data were complemented with ethnographic data from the researcher.
• Thematic analyses highlighted processes which undermine the leaving care transition.
• The transition is riddled with uncertainty and all parties lack agency.
• The term ‘care leaver’ was identified as being particularly problematic.

This pilot study explores young people's experience of leaving care in the United Kingdom. It draws on qualitative data obtained from two focus groups, one with young people and another with professionals, as well as ethnographical and autoethnographical data from the researcher. The data were subject to separate thematic analyses and key themes identified. In bringing together these analyses, a picture emerged of young people trying to make a transition and develop a new identity, whilst in the midst of an unstable environment which often served to undermine their journey. Key implications for policy, practice and future research are discussed, and suggest a need to review and potentially revise some of the core structures which underpin the provision of support to those in the care system.