Preparing for adulthood

Information and advice to help young people and their families prepare for adult life.

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Getting support as an adult

As you prepare for adulthood, there are different types of support that may help you.

This could include help from family and friends, schools and colleges, health services, community organisations and other local services.

Some people may also need care and support from Adult Social Care.

Getting help and advice

There are different places you can go for help and advice as you prepare for adulthood.

Support may be available from:

  • family and friends
  • schools and colleges
  • health professionals
  • community organisations
  • Staffordshire Connects
  • Staffordshire Local Offer

Community support and staying connected

Staying connected to other people can help you as you prepare for adulthood.

You may want to:

  • keep in touch with friends and family
  • join local groups and activities
  • try new hobbies and interests
  • meet new people
  • build confidence in social situations

Community activities can help you stay connected, build confidence and learn new skills.

If you need more support

Some young people may need more support with everyday life as they become adults.

If you think you may need care and support as an adult, Adult Social Care can talk to you about your needs and the things you want to achieve.

Moving from Children's Services to Adult Social Care

If you currently receive support from Children's Services, it is important to start planning for adulthood early.

A transition assessment is a conversation about your future needs and goals. It can look at:

  • what is important to you
  • your strengths and abilities
  • the support you may need as an adult
  • other support and services that may be available

Planning ahead can help make changes to your support as smooth as possible.

Understanding Adult Social Care support

Adult Social Care support is not automatically provided when you turn 18.

If you think you may need care and support, you can contact Adult Social Care and ask for an assessment of your needs.

The council will look at your needs to decide whether you are eligible for funded support. If you are eligible, you will be involved in planning your care and support.

You may need to contribute towards the cost of your care and support. If you are not eligible for funded support, you can still get information and advice about other sources of help.

Adult Social Care Transitions Team

The Adult Social Care Transitions Team can help you plan for adult care and support.

Starting conversations early can help you understand the options available and make informed choices about the future.