Choices and planning 

What is preparing for adulthood?

When a young person turns 14 years old, transition planning starts, as conversations begin about plans for growing up and what the young person would like to do.

If a young person has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), planning will start in their year

9 transition review at school, and each year the transition plan will be updated. This will

be arranged by the school or college.

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There will be lots of changes happening in a young person's life at this point and over the next few years. This is all part of growing up and can create many emotions, both positive and negative. But don't worry, there are lots of people who can provide support and help individuals and families to better understand these changes.

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Some of the things a young person will need to consider when growing up, include: 

• Education – What do you want to learn?

• Employment/Volunteering – What are you interested in? What do you need to do to get ready to do this? How can other people help you get ready?

• Hobbies – What do you want to do in the community? What are the things you'd like to do in your daily life?

• Living – Where will you live?

• Health and support – What help do you need to stay healthy?

Making decisions

At 16 years old, the law says an individual has the right to make decisions about their life. It is important that family, carers, teachers and other people who are paid to help, share information so that young people can make informed decisions.

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If people think that an individual is not able to make an informed decision, then a best interest meeting will make sure the right decisions are made.

Advocacy groups can help individuals to gain skills to make decisions. The Mental Capacity Act (2005) is the law all about making decisions - click here for more information.