Teenagers…what next? Post 16 Planning

This can feel like a daunting task, which is where our Information Team come in. We are here to help! You can chat on the Helpline about this or any query by emailing info@downs-syndrome.org.uk or phoning 0333 1212 300, Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm.

For more information, read on…

As your son or daughter enters their teenage years, you will want to start planning with them for adult life. We have made a checklist of items to help you do this:

• The annual review meeting at school when your son or daughter is in year 9 is the formal start to the ‘transition’ process to adult life. All pupils who have an EHCP must have one of these, and the young person’s voice must be heard.
• This transition review is a good time to begin finding out about what is available (eg. in care and support, work, leisure, housing). You and the person you care for can start looking at which options might suit them best.
• Keep a written record of what works and does not work for the person you care for. This will prove useful when there are decisions about health, care or accommodation to be made in collaboration with professionals.
• Begin developing a person-centred plan with the person you care for and their support network. This is a plan that revolves around the person – their likes and dislikes, their hobbies and interests, their plans for the future. The plan will develop as they grow into adulthood.
• From age 16 there is a presumption in law that people can make their own decisions unless it is proved otherwise. This comes under the provisions of the Mental Capacity Act 2005.

DSA Resources

Education

• Education Rights Post 16
• Education – Supporting Teenagers
• Education – Further Education

Transition

• Listen To Me – Growing Up – Thinking About Being An Adult 13+ Transition (Easy Read)
• Making Choices And Encouraging Independence
• Planning For Adulthood And Transition
• Bank Accounts and Managing Money

Decisions and the Mental Capacity Act

• The Mental Capacity Act: FAQs
• Making Decisions Post 16
• Decision Making And Lasting Power Of Attorney

Health

• Emotional Well-Being
• Annual Health Check
• Annual Health Check Checklist
• Healthy Lifestyle and Sports

Relationships and Sex Education

• Puberty, Adolescence And Sexual Health
• Relationships and Sex Education

Employment

Find out about DSA’s Workfit programme.

Social Care

As the young person approaches adulthood, familiarise yourself with how the adult social care system works.

DSA Training

Keep an eye on our Training page. New dates will soon be scheduled for:

• Preparing for Adulthood
• Preparing for Adulthood: Session Two
• Personal Budgets and Self-directed support
• Supporting Adults who have Down’s syndrome.