Transition

Growing up, leaving school and thinking about the future can be difficult enough for all teenagers and families, but for those with Down's syndrome there may be additional practical and emotional challenges. There is no one pathway that is right for everybody and the process takes careful thought and planning. You may also need to be a strong advocate for your child at this time. Start as early as you can so that your Local Authority has no excuse for not making provision for school leavers. We hope the following information will get you started, but please don't hesitate to call the Helpline if you need further assistance or support.

General Information

Thinking about transition should ideally start with your son or daughter's Annual Review at age 14 - see our information sheet on the 14+ transition review. Our general guide to transition planning also has useful resource links to help you. You can read some case studies on moving into supported living.

Education

Skill is the National Bureau for Students with Disabilities and provides a free information service on education and training opportunities.

The National Association of Specialist Colleges (Natspec) produces a directory of specialist residential colleges for students with special needs.

Employment

A recent survey of our members found that one in five people with Down's syndrome are in paid employment. Many more than this would like to work and have good skills and qualities to offer employers. Our Information for Employers may be helpful if you are trying to find a job or set up work experience for someone with Down's syndrome.

Accommodation

Our Housing Resources sheet lists some of the main providers of residential care, and sources of advice and information.

Money

Benefits at 16 tells you about the financial help that is available for adults with Down's syndrome.

Relationships and Sexuality

Young people with Down's syndrome may also be exploring their sexuality around this time. Our information on Adolescence and Sexuality Education, and our Personal relationships and sexuality resource list may be helpful.

Down's syndrome

In addition, some young people may be questioning or coming to terms with their identity as a person with Down's syndrome. This is something that many people with Down's syndrome will think about at some time in their lives. In our experience, it is helpful to give people information about their condition and allow them opportunities to talk about it if they want to.

The following resources may be helpful:

• Down 2 Earth  809.02 Kb, our magazine by and for people with Down's syndrome
• Let's Talk about Down's Syndrome (DS Scotland)