Moving Forward to Adulthood

After working closely with people who access services, their families and supporters, Sefton Council’s Transitions Team name is changing to Moving Forward to Adulthood. 

Suggestions from a wide range of people

Feedback had shown that the term “Transitions” did not fully represent the team’s role and was often confusing to people who access services. So, Sefton Council’s Adults and Children’s Social Care teams invited suggestions from a wide range of stakeholders. These included young carers, parents and carers, advocacy groups such as People First Merseyside, which includes the Getting Involved Group. 

People First Merseyside supports individuals with disabilities, empowering them to advocate for their needs. The group works to improve services, making them more effective and accessible, and promotes an inclusive, supportive community. 

Suggested by the Getting Involved Group

Many creative ideas were put forward through this co-production process. Moving Forward to Adulthood was chosen as the name that makes clear the team’s commitment to supporting young people as they prepare for adult life. It was suggested by the Getting Involved Group and selected at a meeting of the Group at Southport Town Hall. 

What the team does

The Moving Forward to Adulthood team works with young people from the age of 14, who may need care and support when they turn 18. The team carries out Care Act assessments to identify strengths and needs. These may lead to services such as help at home, respite care, supported accommodation, or direct payments.   

Planning can begin before a young person turns 18, and support continues for those with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). Even if someone does not require services, the team provides advice and directs them to where they can find the right support.  

The team collaborates closely with Children’s Services, Special Educational Needs teams, special schools, and health partners such as Alder Hey and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services. The Moving to Adulthood Team will continue to work with people who access services and their families to improve the way it can help ensure a smooth and well-coordinated move for people as they move into adulthood.  

Clarity and collaboration

Councillor Ian Moncur, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, said:  

“This name change is about clarity and collaboration and reflects the voices of young people and families who told us what matters to them.  

“The Moving Forward to Adulthood team are here to support every young person on their journey, and I want to thank everyone who took part in the co-production that has led to this positive development.”  

Inclusive way of involving people

Councillor Diane Roscoe, Cabinet Member for Children, Schools and Families, added:  

“Sefton Council is committed to co-production as an inclusive way of involving people in the development of our services, practice, and policy and it was at the heart of this re-naming process.  

“We listened; we acted and came up with this new name for the service that is making young people’s transitions to adulthood smoother and their futures brighter.”  

For more information or to contact the team:  

The referral pathways are currently in development. In the meantime: 

• If you are open to Children’s Social Care: 
  You do not need to make a self-referral. Your Children’s Social Worker will speak to you and can refer internally. 

• If you are not open to Children’s Social Care and would like to be referred: 

• Under 18: Email MovingForwardtoAdulthood@sefton.gov.uk 

• Over 18: Call 0345 140 0845 

• Professionals: 
  For young people over 18, you can make a professional referral via the portal here.  

The team are developing a Moving Forward to Adulthood webpage, which will include more information about the team and what support they offer. 

Further information on how to get involved with Adult Social Care forums or groups can be found at Get involved.