Growing up is an exciting time, with new chances and choices.
But it is stressful and difficult for many young people with disabilities.
This is because the organisations in their lives do not talk to each other well enough, and they do not involve the young person and their family enough in planning for their future.
Also if they don't have good health plans, they can't use the adult services they want to.
What does Valuing People say will happen?
· The Connexions’ service gives advice and support to young people, about what they want to do in the future. They will have personal advisors for young people with learning disabilities.
· There will be Person Centred Planning for young people growing up
· Each Partnership Board will monitor transition arrangements so that it is constantly checking that things are getting better for young people growing up.
· Health Action Plans will make sure that young people get the right support to stay healthy, so they can use the adult services, or take up the opportunities, they want to.
· Directors of Social Services have the job of making sure there are good links between children's and adult's services for people with learning disabilities. This is part of the Social Care Quality Framework
In Southampton we
· Want to start planning with young people early on
· Have set up a subgroup to which people from many professions come along.
· We think about transition from 14 years old
· We have a person centred planning (PCP) transition worker who is helping schools to have person centred annual reviews. See the PCP page for more information.
· We have written a policy with procedures so professionals know what to do and expect of each other
· We have written a booklet for young people called “My Information” to explain what happens. You can get a copy from Mencap in Portswood Road. Telephone 02380584088
· We have written another book for carers called “Moving towards adulthood” you can get a copy from Mencap
You can contact Abi Hamilton, the senior practiioner for transiton at Thomas Lewis House to find out more.Her number is 80294420
In April 2010, the Partnership Board held a meeting where they asked professionals questions about Transition. Click here for more information.
