First post so please go easy on me! I’m dad to twin boys who have autism, a learning disability, hypotonia, hypermobility, dyspraxia and epilepsy. The boys are 18 in March and currently attend a special school. We have had social work involvement from an early age. We are trying to navigate transition to adult services but are finding the process painfully slow and frustrating. We have identified a suitable placement for the boys but can’t make any progress until an adult social worker is appointed. We are told this is likely to be December at the earliest then we still have to do assessments (always x2) and budgets. Is there anything I can do to speed this up as I feel helpless and increasingly stressed. We have financial and welfare guardianship for the boys. We are in Fife. Any advice would be welcomed. Thanks
That’s a very difficult situation. From what I gather social workers are in short supply. Not sure what to suggest. Can you do as much work for them as possible, so it’s easy for them to rubber-stamp it? I’m not sure what processes you are involved in, but I’ve found the approach of making it as easy as possible for them to do what you want often helps grease the wheels.
Hi @Mike
I’ve heard similar frustration from other parents in your situation. From my limited knowledge/experience, there probably isn’t a lot you can do except use the time be as prepared as you can be, which it sounds like you are. It is an opportunity to do some exploring and planning ahead, but it can feel a bit chicken and egg when you don’t know what sort of budget you are looking at. However, if you are ready with a clear and, where possible, costed plan for your boys, it will make the job easier for adult social work and might mean a more efficient process. There are support planning tools that you can use here: Support Planning | In Control Scotland
Your best bet is probably to speak to other parents who have been through the transition process with social work locally to give you a sense of what you can expect. The following organisations/resources might be helpful:
Contact in Scotland - Talking About Tomorrow: Contact in Scotland