Preparing for adulthood can help achieve positive outcomes, such as:

• further education and/or employment – what to study, finding a job and knowing how to get it
• independent living – being as independent as possible, including where to live
• participating in society, including having friends and supportive relationships, and participating in, and contributing to, the local community
• being as healthy as possible in adult life
• getting out and about – Becoming more independent is a big part of growing up. Getting to do things with people who aren’t part of our immediate family, such as friends or with an organised group is a great way to build confidence and discover new interests.

The transition to adulthood process is one that all young people go through. It can be especially difficult for young people with special needs. We will work with you to create an action plan to take you or your loved one through this process.

The purpose of this planning is to:

• make sure there is continuity in care where provided
• provide access to all the information and opportunities at the time it’s needed

The main things to remember about transition are that:

• there are people to help you through the process
• there is a protocol to make sure that those people are working together with you to help plan for the future
• transition does not happen on a 16th or 18th birthday – it is a long process
• there is plenty of time for you to find out everything you need and get the support that you want