What is Transition?

Transition takes place between the ages of 14-25, and is the time when young people have to make important decisions about their future. Like all teenagers and young adults, those with disabilities will inevitably experience the ups and downs of adolescence; however these experiences may be more problematic than their non-disabled peers, due to additional health problems and the fact that they are often involved with a number of additional support agencies. 

As research has shown that transition can be a difficult time, and in order to ensure the young person’s needs are fully met, it is wise to start planning well in advance.  Young people may find the decisions they are making about further education, independent living or relationships exciting, but equally they may find the whole experience daunting. The purpose of planning is to guarantee continuity of care, and to ensure that the young person has access to information and support to assist them in making informed decisions.  It is imperative to keep the young person and their family at the centre of the planning and to consider their feelings and wishes about throughout the process.  Forward thinking will help to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety and will enable the creation of a clear plan to assist all involved in the transition process.

Resources and Further Information

The Transition Information Network (TIN) 
The Transition Information Network (TIN) is a website for parents, carers and people who work with and for disabled young people in transition to adulthood.  TIN is an alliance of organisations and individuals who come together with a common aim: to improve the experience of disabled young people's transition to adulthood. TIN is a source of information and good practice for disabled young people, families and professionals. 

A transition guide, for professionals, funded by the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) and produced by the Council for Disabled Children with a reference group, has now been published. It is available to download.  Hard copies can be obtained from the DCSF's publications department, you can contact them on 0845 60 222 60, textphone 0845 60 555 60 or email at dcsf@prolog.uk.com. 

Mencap have produced a leaflet ‘Your guide to Transition’ offering advice and information for parents and carers about the transition process.  This can be downloaded free of charge from there website.

Contact a Family has an excellent factsheet which can be downloaded from their website.