Moving into adulthood
Moving into adulthood is a big step. You will need to plan your future care and support to live as independently as possible.
Even though you will be an adult at 18, you will still be learning and growing. We will help you build on your strengths and improve in areas where you need support.
If you are over 16 and cannot make certain decisions about your care, others can decide for you under the Mental Capacity Act 2005. Learn more about this law and how it supports decision-making.
How to get support
If you already receive support from Northamptonshire Children’s Trust, talk to your worker. They will refer you to us. This usually happens when you turn 16.
If you do not have support from Northamptonshire Children’s Trust, contact us through the adult social care referral page.
If you are:
- over 18, you can do this yourself
- under 18, ask your parent, carer, or school to contact us
If you have an Education Healthcare Plan (EHCP), your school should help you prepare for adulthood. Find out more about EHCPs.
Next steps
After we get your referral, we will assign you to your local Adult Social Care team (hub). If you have a learning disability, there are specialist hubs in Daventry and Northampton.
We will have a Moving into Adulthood (MIA) conversation with you within 10 working days of receiving your referral. This helps us understand your needs and gives you information about adult social care.
Together, we will decide the best time to start planning your support for adulthood. Find out more about arranging adult care.
Questions for consideration
You may find the following questions helpful with your decision-making:
- how do you feel about your current support? Does it work for you?
- what would you like to do as an adult (for example, job, voluntary work, college)?
- what social activities interest you (for example, local groups, hobbies)?
- what else would make you happier and healthier?
- what do you need help with to become more independent?
Further preparation for adulthood
See more about preparing for adulthood, where you can find a range of useful information and resources.
Last updated 24 September 2024