On the cliff edge

Foreword from Katie Ghose, Kids Chief Executive

Listening to the experiences of a disabled young person, parent or provider on the topic of the transition into adulthood, it is rare to hear a positive account of these pivotal journeys.

Instead, the term ‘cliff edge’ crops up again and again. Whatever pathway they have been navigating through childhood, the cliff edge comes as they face a gap in a formal move from children’s to adults’ services. This leaves so many families desperately struggling to fill the gap.

Unpacking people’s experiences, it is clear the issues run deeper still. The cliff edge comprehensively depicts an entirely broken system, which is leaving too many young people with SEND and their parents on the precipice. The scale of the problem must not be underestimated, nor the impact it has on family relationships, finances, and mental health.

Expertise in what works is plentiful – and especially powerful – when it comes from young people and families who have somehow found their way through. There are excellent examples of provision, some highlighted in this report.

But mostly, disabled young people are being badly let down and denied the support that is right for them. Fresh thinking and urgent action are needed to flatten the cliff edge. A better system would open doors to different futures, reflecting individuals’ strengths and needs. As one parent said: ‘Something better must be possible’.

Whether this report is used as a conversation-starter, or to work alongside brilliant collaborations and activity already happening at many levels, we want it to be a springboard for change. We urge you to join us in transforming transitions into adulthood, once and for all.