Children legally become adults at 18, regardless of their needs. It's a time of change and we aim to help everyone plan for, support and recognise a young person's adult status.
For children and young people with a disability, when we talk about Preparing for Adulthood, it means the ‘Transition’ from being a teenager to being an adult, at which point the young person may also move on from using children’s services to adult services.
This is a time when young people gain new rights and responsibilities. Preparing for Adulthood can be an exciting time for young people, full of new opportunities, but it can also be a time of uncertainty so planning is important.
The following video from the Council for Disabled Children gives an introduction of options to consider as you or your child approach adulthood.
I am a young person...
How do I prepare for adulthood?
Support for my transition to adulthood
I am a parent/ carer or professional...
How will support for parents/ families change?
Opportunities for 16-25
year olds
Transition to adulthood and
Adult Social Care: reflections
and advice from parents