AQW 44476/22-27
Mrs Michelle Guy
Alliance Party
Lagan Valley
Tabled Date: 21/04/2026
Answered On Date: 01/05/2026
Priority Written: No
Question:
To ask the Minister of Health to detail any current pathways and supports in place for young people with additional needs, leaving a special school as they transition from children to adult services.
Answer:
My Department’s draft Learning Disability Service Model is designed to improve services for individuals with a diagnosed learning disability, but it is not intended to operate as a single pathway for all people with complex needs. It sets out several key ambitions for people with complex needs, to receive lifelong, co-ordinated support tailored to their needs and enabling choice and control. Health and social care support for a young person is determined by HSC Trusts through the assessed needs process, in line with established eligibility criteria. A Regional Transition Protocol for Children and Young People with a Learning Disability, including those with a Learning Disability and Co-occurring Autism, has been developed. Confirmation of funding to facilitate a pilot of the protocol is awaited, to support full regional implementation. Children’s and Adult Learning Disability Services across HSC Trusts remain committed to enhancing the Transition process. Work is also ongoing to review and update the Adult Autism Care Pathway, to help achieve consistency in diagnostic and support services across Trusts, in line with NICE guidelines. This work is being informed by scoping work with HSC Trusts to better understand service needs, existing pathways and regional demand. Future provision will depend on available funding, while Trusts will continue to meet the needs of their populations. My Department will continue to work with HSC organisations and Executive colleagues to strengthen pathways and improve coordination of support for young people with complex needs.
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