Transition to adulthood · Planning for an 18+ move
A new chapter.
A considered beginning.
Supported living for young adults transitioning from children’s services, with time to understand the person, build familiarity and plan the move together.
Start the conversation early
A move is more than a moving date.
Families, social workers, SEND teams, colleges, transition teams and commissioners can begin discussions before a planned 18+ move. Early conversations help identify the information, people and practical arrangements needed.
Hear the young person
Understand their communication, wishes, interests and what they want adult life to look like.
Bring people together
Involve family and relevant professionals so planning reflects a shared understanding of needs and goals.
Allow time to prepare
Consider visits, familiarisation and a transition pace that works for the young person.
Planning discussions may begin before age 18. The Bedford supported-living pathway is for adults aged 18 and over.
Confidence through familiarity
Meet the people.
Get to know the place.
A suitable transition can include opportunities to visit, meet the team and explore daily routines. Planning should consider communication and sensory preferences, education, relationships and the things that help the young person feel settled.
The transition journey
Clear steps. Shared responsibilities.
01 · Referral
Begin with an enquiry about needs, preferred location and the proposed timescale.
02 · Assessment
Explore strengths, support requirements, risks, routines and desired outcomes.
03 · Compatibility
Consider the setting, household and the arrangements needed for a suitable placement.
04 · Visits
Plan opportunities to become familiar with the people and accommodation.
05 · Transition plan
Agree the pace, responsibilities, support plan and practical arrangements.
06 · Move-in
Begin the placement once suitability, capacity, support and funding are agreed.
07 · Review and settle
Review how the move is working for the young adult and adjust support as needs and goals develop.
Keep everyday life in view
Make space for the life ahead.
Learning and opportunities
Consider college, training, work or volunteering aspirations alongside support needs.
Relationships and routines
Plan how important relationships, interests and familiar routines can continue through the move.
For families and professionals
Plan together.
Take the next step with confidence.
A referral starts an individual suitability discussion. A placement depends on assessment, compatibility, availability and agreed funding; starting a conversation does not confirm a room or move-in date.
Coordinating a transition?
Find the professional referral pathway and ask about the information needed to consider a placement.
Confidence in your choice
Clear information about our service, your privacy and how to raise a concern.
Start a conversation
Start planning the next chapter.
Talk to Brooks about the young person, the proposed timescale and the support they may need for an adult placement.