Models of Multi-agency Services for Transition to Adult Services for Disabled Young People and those with Complex Health Needs: Impact and Costs. Report to the Department of Health
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Abstract
There is considerable evidence from descriptive research that for most disabled young people the process of transition from child to adult services is problematic. The problems in provision of appropriate services to support transition and in achieving positive outcomes for young people have been acknowledged in government policy. Many multi-agency transition services for disabled young people are at an early stage in their development, and there is considerable variability in how they are being implemented. This study provides information on aspects of such services that are likely to provide a more positive impact for young people and families, and highlights the importance of properly resourced services that provide direct support to young people, provide timely and clear information and support young people until they are settled in adult services. It also points to the importance of the wider range of services in providing opportunities for disabled young people as they develop into adulthood, and the lack of such opportunities at present which contributes to high levels of unmet need. More information on the cost and cost-effectiveness of transition services is needed to inform implementation. However, such studies are dependent on the willingness of services to release accurate information on their costs and activities.
There is considerable evidence from descriptive research that for most disabled young people the process of transition from child to adult services is problematic. The problems in provision of appropriate services to support transition and in achieving positive outcomes for young people have been acknowledged in government policy. Many multi-agency transition services for disabled young people are at an early stage in their development, and there is considerable variability in how they are being implemented. This study provides information on aspects of such services that are likely to provide a more positive impact for young people and families, and highlights the importance of properly resourced services that provide direct support to young people, provide timely and clear information and support young people until they are settled in adult services. It also points to the importance of the wider range of services in providing opportunities for disabled young people as they develop into adulthood, and the lack of such opportunities at present which contributes to high levels of unmet need. More information on the cost and cost-effectiveness of transition services is needed to inform implementation. However, such studies are dependent on the willingness of services to release accurate information on their costs and activities.