Generally speaking, once children reach 19, they will use adult health services. In practice, some children with special needs may already have been seen at other hospitals or community clinics from the age of 16. However, for others the transition from the Royal Alex and the Seaside View Child Development Centre to general outpatient clinics and adult specialists may be confusing. As with other services, parents and health professionals can do a lot to pave the way and prepare the child for the change.

Often your paediatrician or specialist will discuss with you who will be treating your child in future as part of a routine appointment, but if not, you can ask for an appointment to talk about what will happen. Some specialists will hold a joint meeting with adult health services where your child's needs can be discussed. Some children with learning difficulties will continue to be cared for by their GP, who will refer them to adult specialists where appropriate, and to community health services such as the Community Care Learning Disability Team or district nurses. Others may keep in touch with the paediatrician beyond 19.

If your child has severe learning difficulties, the community paediatrician may send a discharge letter to your GP, letting her know your child's future needs and that he or she will soon be leaving school. The school nurse or medical officer may also be able to tell you what will be available when your child reaches 19 and how to get in touch with the services he or she needs. As part of your child's Transition Plan, a Health Plan should be drawn up.

Amaze produces a fact sheet with advice about Admissions to hospital which may still be useful for young people and adults.