We are pleased to announce that as of 8th June 2026, Intercare Support Services Limited has been officially certified under the Cyber Essentials scheme by IASME.
This government-backed certification proves that we have robust defences against the most common online threats
Why this matters:
Questions about our cybersecurity? Please get in touch.
The move from college or sixth form to adult life is a huge milestone for any young person. For a young adult on the autistic spectrum – and their family – it can feel especially overwhelming. Suddenly, the familiar structure of education, known support staff, and daily routine is gone. In its place comes uncertainty: What next? Will there be support? How do I access adult social care? As an experienced team based in Newport (TF10), supporting families across Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin, we’ve helped many young people (18+) navigate this transition successfully. Here is a simple, practical guide to get you started.
The legal duty to prepare for adulthood should begin in Year 9 (age 13-14) through the Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). But many families only realise planning is needed when college is ending. Action: Ask the college SENCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) for a formal “transition review” at least 12–18 months before the leaving date. Invite social care, health, and any potential adult provider. In Shropshire, the Preparing for Adulthood (PfA) pathway is well established – use it.
Once a young person turns 18, responsibility moves from Children’s Services to Adult Social Care (Shropshire Council or Telford & Wrekin Council). Action: Request a Care Act assessment at least 6–9 months before college ends. Be clear about needs around:
Don’t assume you will be offered support – you often need to ask clearly and provide evidence from college or clinicians.
Many families fear only two options: staying at home with no support, or a residential placement far away. In reality, there is a middle ground.
Possible pathways include:
Action: Ask social care for a list of local supported living providers and request to visit at least three.
The gap between college life and adult life often shows up in practical skills. Start teaching these well before college ends:
Example: If your young adult struggles with anxiety in new places, practice visiting the same café in Newport or Telford town centre every Saturday for a month – familiarity builds confidence.
If a young adult feels anxious in unfamiliar settings, try building routine by visiting the same café in Newport or Telford town centre every Saturday for a month — repeated exposure helps turn new places into comfortable ones.
You don’t have to wait until college finishes to involve a care provider. At Intercare Support Services, we offer transition planning visits while the young person is still in education. This means:
Transition is stressful for parents and carers. You may be grieving the loss of the “school years” while worrying about the future. It is okay to feel anxious. Action: Join a local parent carer group. In Shropshire, Parent Carer Council (PCC) Shropshire and Telford Parent Carer Forum are excellent. Also, ask social care for a carer’s assessment – you are entitled to support too.
Transitioning from college to adulthood with autism is not about finding a “perfect” placement – it is about building a bridge, step by step. With early planning, the right local support, and a provider who truly understands autism, your young adult can thrive. Need a friendly, no pressure chat about transition support in Shropshire or Telford? Call us on 01952 455353 or email manager@intercaresupportservices.uk – we are based right here in Newport (TF10) and we’d love to help.