Transition to adult services and adulthood for young people with autistic spectrum conditions

There is some evidence from research that for many young people with autistic spectrum conditions (ASC) the process of transition from child to adult services is problematic. Current policy developments and the growth of multi-agency working may lead to improvements in this situation. However, there is little research which can identify the components of models of good practice in transition services or the costs of such services. Further, there is little detailed research specifically on the transition experiences of young people with ASC and their families, or on the specific practices of transition services for such young people. This study will provide in-depth qualitative data on the support provided for young people with ASC and their families in five case study areas. This will include support provided by the multi-agency transition services and the support provided for any young people with ASC who do not meet eligibility criteria for such services. It will explore managers', staff, parents' and young people's views on the processes and outcomes of transition planning and support. Quantitative data on parents' and young people's satisfaction with service support; met and unmet needs; services used; and perceptions of receiving coordinated support, will also enable comparison between different services and different groups of young people with ASC.