AQW 45259/22-27

Miss Nuala McAllister
Alliance Party
North Belfast

Tabled Date: 30/04/2026
Answered On Date: 17/06/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health to detail any procedure in place for transfer from children's to adult services for people with a learning disability.

Answer:

Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) are responsible for the provision of health and social care services in accordance with individual assessed need and available resources. HSCTs have procedures in place to facilitate the process of transition or transfer from Children’s Services to Adult Learning Disability Services.

To improve Health and Social Care Transitions, DoH established a regional sub-group and have worked closely with HSCTs and other key stakeholders, to develop a Regional Draft Transitions Protocol for Children and Young People with a Learning Disability including Children and Young People with a Learning Disability and co-occurring Autism.

This draft Transition Protocol aims to enhance transitions planning and collaborative working between Children’s and Adult Learning Disability Services, to address the areas of significant challenge that have been articulated by young people, their families and staff involved in transitions between services.

An Easy Read version of this draft Transition Protocol has also been developed. DoH Officials have engaged with young people, parents and carers and have received positive feedback regarding this Easy Read Transition Protocol.

Confirmation of funding to facilitate a pilot of the Regional Transition Protocol for Children and Young People with a Learning Disability, including those with a Learning Disability and Co-occurring Autism is awaited. It is hoped that this pilot will inform and support full regional implementation in the fullness of time.