Did you know? Preparing for adulthood should start early

For children and young people with special educational needs or disabilities, planning for adulthood should begin from Year 9 onwards. This early planning should explore future care and support needs, employment, education, accommodation, community participation, health needs and independence.

Did you know?

A transition assessment helps the local authority understand what support a young person may need when they become an adult. It should be carried out where it is likely the young person will have care and support needs after turning 18 and where an assessment would be of significant benefit.
The threshold for assessment is low. A local authority should not refuse simply because adult services may not ultimately be needed. If it refuses to assess, it should provide written reasons, explain when assessment would be appropriate, and share information or advice to help prevent or delay future needs.

What should be considered?

Assessments should look at the young person’s current needs, likely adult needs, wellbeing, family circumstances and the views of parents or carers. Eligible care and support needs may relate to daily living, personal care, nutrition, safety at home, relationships, education or work, community access, transport, recreation and caring responsibilities.

Why does it matter?

Good transition planning helps avoid a “cliff edge” at 18. Where eligible needs are identified, the local authority should prepare a care and support plan and consider a personal budget. If an Education, Health and Care Plan remains in place, children’s services may continue until that plan ceases.

Health and accommodation planning

Young people with long-term complex health needs may need NHS Continuing Healthcare or continuing care considered as part of transition planning. Decisions about where a young adult will live should be person-centred and take account of their wishes, needs, mental capacity, family support and human rights.

If things go wrong

If you are concerned that the correct transition process has not been followed, ask the local authority to confirm its position in writing. If needed, concerns may be challenged through the complaints process, an extended appeal, or judicial review.

If you need further advice and guidance with regards to anything covered above, just contact our team on 01926 491181 or email: SophyP@moore-tibbits.co.uk.