Objective
The 16-17 Forum aims to support young people with complex needs in transitioning to adulthood by identifying and implementing effective practices and planning solutions.
Outcomes
- Clear and agreed commissioning or case management pathways.
- Provision in place by the young person’s 18th birthday.
- Agreed risk management plans.
- Removal of barriers.
- Resolution of commissioning issues.
Stakeholders
Core membership
- Children’s Social Care (Disabled Children Service, Children in Care, Care Leavers, SEND).
- Adult Social Care (TASC and Specialist Placement Team).
- Adult Commissioning Team.
Additional members
- SEND Stat Team.
- NHS Devon ICB (CHC Team).
- Devon Partnership Trust.
- CHFD (CAMHS).
Background
- Focus on 16-17-year-olds as this is a critical period for planning their future beyond 18.
- Address misalignment in timelines between ASC, children’s, health, and education services.
- Target groups include young people in special schools, those with EHCPs, those in care, and those in hospitals.
Forum activities
- Review complex cases to ensure legal frameworks are followed and individual plans are in place.
- Identify and resolve potential issues early.
- Facilitate collaboration among partners for better understanding and support.
Out of scope
- Detailed care planning for individuals.
- Implementation of individual-specific interventions.
Interface with other meetings
- Unsuitable accommodation meeting.
- Children in care – Pathway or Transition Panel.
- Young offenders.
- Young people in maintained schools.
- Young carers.
Process for groups 2 and 3
- Criteria establishment: Define and communicate criteria for identifying young people facing transition barriers.
- Identification: Teams identify individuals meeting criteria and submit forms.
- Data collection and analysis: Collect and analyse data to prioritise cases.
- Case discussion meetings: Plan transitions, discuss barriers, and ensure legal frameworks and plans are in place.