Transitioning from children’s to adult services

Transitioning from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) to adult services can be a challenging time, especially with other changes in your life. We understand this and are committed to supporting you through the process.

As you approach 18 years old, your care coordinator will begin discussing your transition plan with you. You will be fully involved in the process, with support from the transition team, including peer support workers who have lived experience of mental health services. They are here to help ensure continuity of care, reduce anxiety, and empower you throughout the change.

Peer support workers may offer guidance, share their own stories, and provide practical help. They can support you via phone or face-to-face meetings, depending on what works best for you.

Your transition plan

During the transition process, you and your parents or carer, if you wish, will work closely with your care coordinator and peer support worker to create your own transition plan. This plan will include:

• your hopes for future support and how these needs can be met
• “Transition Action Points” outlining who is responsible for each task and when it should be completed
• a plan for maintaining your well-being
• a clear timescale with important transition dates
• contact details for everyone involved in your transition and who to reach out to if you have any questions

Top tips for your transition to adult services

• Communicate your needs: Let us know what you think you need to help you transition smoothly.
• Be involved: Make sure you are actively involved in creating your own transition plan.
• Plan early: Start planning early so you have enough time to adjust.
• Speak up if you have concerns: If you’re worried about anything during the process, let someone know right away.
• Work with your peer support worker: Collaborate with them to create a plan that helps you stay well.
• Involve your parents or carers if needed: Let the child and adolescent mental health services know if you’d like them to be part of your plan.
• Ask questions: If you don’t understand something, ask for clarification.
• Address concerns promptly: If you’re unhappy with something, raise it with someone at child and adolescent mental health services as soon as possible.

Page last reviewed: February 13, 2025
Next review due: February 13, 2026