AQW 45219/22-27


Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry


Tabled Date: 30/04/2026
Answered On Date: 08/06/2026
Priority Written: No


Question:
To ask the Minister of Health to detail at what age transition planning for autistic young people is typically initiated, in each Health and Social Care Trust.


Answer:
Across Health and Social Care Trusts, transition planning for autistic young people is typically initiated between the ages of 16 and 18 with some variation depending on need and local service pathways. Trusts have advised the following:
Belfast Health and Social Care Trust: Children’s Psychological Services, including for autistic young people, are provided up to age 18. Transition to Adult Services is facilitated from age 16 where appropriate, including access to the Belfast Adult Autism Advice Service.
Northern Health and Social Care Trust: Paediatric Autism Services accept referrals up to age 17 years and 9 months, with onward referral to Adult Autism Services thereafter. Transition planning to Adult Services begins at age 16. A joint Paediatric–Adult Diagnostic Pathway is being piloted, and post-diagnostic support includes advisory services such as Northern Adult Autism Advisory Service from age 16.
South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust: Autism assessments are completed up to age 17 years and 9 months, with referrals to Adult Autism Services for those approaching age 18. Young people who have received a diagnosis, and their families, are provided with psychoeducation and autism strategies through workshops and groupwork, and are signposted to other services and supports. The Children and Young People’s Autism Service does not provide 1-1 intervention post-diagnosis. Transition planning is aligned to individual assessed need. Young people approaching age 18 may be referred to Adult Autism Services, with transitions managed through established pathways for any other services involved in their care.
Southern Health and Social Care Trust: Autism Services may continue into adulthood (up to age 30 where required), meaning a defined transition point is not typically required within the Autism Service itself.
Western Health and Social Care Trust: Autism Assessments are completed up to age 17 years and 9 months, with referrals to Adult Autism Services thereafter. Transition planning typically begins at age 17, or from age 16 where needs are more complex, and is aligned with education and other relevant service pathways. Children with Autism and co-occurring conditions e.g. including Intellectual Disability or ongoing mental health concerns follow the transition processes in place for these specific services.