Planning for the transition to adulthood

Part of: Transitioning to adulthood (Ages 14 – 25)

Contents

Planning for adulthood usually starts in Year 9 (age 14) during your annual education review.

If you are referred by children's social care, you may be offered a social care assessment before your 17th birthday. 

The goal is to help you move confidently into adult life, with clear choices and joined-up support.

Transition timeline

Age 14 (Year 9): Start planning early

  • Preparing for adulthood becomes part of your annual review if you have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
  • You and your family may start talking about your goals for learning, work, health, and independence.
  • Your school or college may share information with health and social care services (with your consent) if you are likely to need adult support.

Age 16–17: Preparing for adult services

  • You may be referred to adult social care by children’s services and be offered a Care Act assessment before your 18th birthday to help plan your support.
  • To make a referral before you turn 18, call 0161 912 5125 or use the online portal.

Age 18 and over: Moving to adult services

  • Once you turn 18, your support may come under Adult Social Care instead of children’s services. This is only if you are eligible.
  • You will need to complete a financial assessment to work out how much you need to contribute towards your care. 

Getting help to plan your transition

You don’t have to plan alone. You could get support from:

  • Your school or college SEND team
  • Your social worker or transition coordinator
  • Trafford SEND Local Offer (for education, health, and social care support)
  • Trafford Parent Carer Forum (peer support and advice for families)
  • Healthwatch Trafford (for feedback on health and care services)
  • Advocacy Focus (for independent advocacy and decision-making support)

There may be other professionals who will support you. 

Areas of support during transition

Transition planning covers all parts of adult life, not just education or care.

You could get help with the following areas:

  • Education, work and independence
  • Learning and training
  • Independent living and housing
  • Managing money and benefits
  • Health and wellbeing
  • Friends, relationships, and community