Transitions
We want people to be well supported through transition and big life changes.
A Transition is a big change in the life of a person with a learning disability, autism or other support needs.
For example:
- the time of diagnosis
- starting school
- leaving school
- transition into adulthood
- leaving the family home
- getting older.
These examples are all big changes for you, your family and carers. During change you are all more likely to feel anxious or have other strong emotions.
In Northern Ireland, people with a learning disability, autism, and other support needs—and their families—continue to face poor experiences during transitions, such as moving into adulthood. Key issues include lack of coordination between services, inconsistent support, limited choices and opportunities, late transition planning, and a stark difference between children’s and adult services.
Support for Transition Planning
Young people with a learning disability, autism, and other support needs in Northern Ireland often face significant challenges during transitions to adulthood. Research consistently highlights that these transitions can be disjointed, poorly coordinated, and lacking in person-centred support. Reports such as Don’t Box Me In and YOLO reveal that many young people feel unheard in decision-making processes, experience reduced opportunities compared to their peers, and face uncertainty about their future. The Principles of Good Transitions and policy briefings further stress the need for early planning, joined-up services, and a focus on individual strengths and aspirations.
Effective transition planning is crucial to ensure young people are supported to live fulfilled, independent lives. The following summary outlines how transition planning works in practice—what it involves, when it starts, and the support available to help young people move confidently into adulthood.
Transition Plans for Young People
A Transition Plan outlines your goals for the future and the support you need to live as independently as possible. It covers areas such as education, employment, housing, health, transport, and leisure.
Most Transition Plans are created in Year 10, following a review meeting arranged by your school. You and your parents or carers will be invited, along with professionals like teachers, social workers, doctors, psychologists, and careers advisers, to help develop the plan.
Transition to Adult Life
As you move into adulthood, a health and social care assessment—called an ‘assessment of need’—is usually the first step in accessing support. A professional, often an occupational therapist, will assess what you need to live independently. This could include healthcare, equipment, home support, or residential care.
Based on this, a personalised care plan is created, often involving services from both public and voluntary sectors. If needed, you’ll also be connected with housing or benefits services
ARC NI advocates for and works towards
Good transition coordination and working together, led by key workers.
Person-centred and strength-based transition planning.
Families need good support, clear communication and accessible information.
Making sure people keep getting a range of services that support their health and wellbeing.