The spatial analyses conducted in the LEASE prototype
demonstrated that GIS can be useful when planning services for
youth making the transition to independent living. Large data sets
were combined and integrated into maps that portrayed the
information in a simple visual presentation. These maps can be
used to facilitate dialogue with youth as they consider their
housing options. Foster care leavers are not an homogenous group
however and they have a diverse set of needs and aspirations that
should be considered when identifying housing options. Ideally,
youth should have a voice in housing decisions, and to the extent
possible, should be offered a choice of housing that will meet their
needs (National Care Advisory Service, 2009). Spatial analysis can
be used to facilitate these choices. For example, the LEASE
prototype identified six apartment complexes that provided
service accessibility for youth with children. These six options
could be discussed with youth who have children of their own so
they can prioritize the choices available to them and understand
the implications of each option on other aspects of their life
(National Care Advisory Service, 2009). Narrowing the housing
options through LEASE provides a structure for youth and
transition case managers to make strategic choices about where
youth will live.