Planning for the future
As your child grows older, their health needs may change and so might the services that support them.
Planning starts early, usually from Year 9 (age 13 to 14). It includes thinking about:
- staying healthy
- becoming independent
- preparing for work or further education
- being part of the community
Transitioning to adult health services
Moving to adult health services is called healthcare transition. It involves:
- planning with your current health team (e.g. paediatricians, therapists)
- identifying adult services that will continue support
- helping your child manage their health needs
This might include learning:
- when to visit a GP, pharmacist, or A&E
- how to manage medication
- how to stay healthy through diet, exercise, and lifestyle choices
- where to get advice about relationships and sexual health
Annual health checks for young people with learning disabilities
From age 14, young people with a learning disability can get a free annual health check at their GP.
Regular checks help find health problems early and prevent serious illness. During the check, you will visit your doctor’s surgery and see a GP or nurse. They will:
- carry out a general check-up, including weight, heart rate and blood pressure
- talk about feelings and behaviour
- ask about daily habits, food, and lifestyle
- review any medicines your child takes
- make sure long-term conditions like asthma or diabetes, are managed well
- check if your child needs help from other health professionals, like physiotherapists or speech and language therapists
More information about annual health checks can be found on the NHS website.
Transitioning to adult mental health services
As young people get older, their mental health needs may continue after they turn 18. In Bromley, there is support to help with this change, but the process depends on each person’s needs.
What to expect
If your child is supported by CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services), planning for adult care starts about 3 to 6 months before their 18th birthday. The CAMHS team will lead this planning and involve:
- Your child and your family or carers
- Adult mental health professionals if a referral is needed
- A personalised plan to make sure care continues smoothly
Families should talk to their CAMHS worker for advice that fits their situation.
Adult mental health services in Bromley
If your child still needs mental health support after turning 18, they may be referred to the Bromley Mental Health Hub.
This hub is run by Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust and BLG Mind. It supports adults aged 18 to 64 and offers:
- NHS mental health services
- Talking therapies
- Peer support
- Advice on jobs and housing
- Recovery College for those with long-term needs
The hub uses a no wrong door approach, meaning every referral is checked and sent to the right service, even if the first contact isn’t the best fit.
Other options
Not all young people will need adult mental health services. If not, CAMHS can help you find other support, such as:
- Community wellbeing services
- Voluntary organisations
- GP-led care and talking therapies
Where to get help
- Talk to your CAMHS worker: They can explain the process and your options
- Visit the Bromley Mental Health Hub: For adult mental health services
- Visit Bromley Y: For emotional wellbeing support for young people up to 18, or up to age 25 if they have an Education, Health and Care plan, often referred to as an EHCP
- Visit the NHS website: Learn more about Moving on to adult mental health services.