Transitioning to adult health services

Young People with complex health needs and long-term conditions may need continued support from health services once they are 18.

This may mean being seen by a different team, or in a different service or location. Some young people may no longer be eligible for specialist services but will have their health needs managed by their GP.

Planning for this transfer should start in plenty of time to allow young people and their families to prepare. It should normally start at around age 14 (school year 9). Transition may be planned jointly with other services including education and social care.

When discussing young people’s health needs, it should not be a single event but a process that starts being prepared as soon as possible. This could be as part of the annual review at school or as part of the Education, Health and Social Care Plan.