Principle 5.  Young people, parents and carers must have access to the information they need

Summary of Principle 5

Information should clearly state what young people are entitled to during transitions

Young people, parents and carers should have access to information stating what support they are entitled to and what they can expect during the transition process. The right to information is included in many diff erent legislative areas.

Information should show what support is available

It is best practice that young people should be able to make informed choices about the support they receive. There are many approaches which can help improve information provision including asset mapping and local transitions fairs.

Information should be inclusive of different communication needs

It is a requirement to provide information in ways that are inclusive of the different communication needs of young people, parents and carers. This approach is fundamental when working with the deaf, deafblind and blind communities or others with communication support needs.

Information should use common and agreed language

The lack of an agreed and common language is one of the most fundamental challenges to achieving a shared understanding of transitions and more joined-up approaches. It is good practice to ensure that all information is, as far as possible, free from professional jargon. There should be clear definitions of the terms that are shared and agreed across all professional sectors.

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