Preparation for independence interventions

Who is suitable for a preparation for independence intervention?

At HSR Psychology, any young person up to 25 years could be a suitable candidate for a preparation for independence intervention, depending on their circumstances. Preparation for independence interventions may be suitable for individuals who: 

• Are starting college or university and require additional support to live independently
• Are living away from home for the first time
• Fear the transition to independence
• Are approaching adulthood and struggle to do tasks alone
• Have additional learning needs, such as a learning disability, autistic spectrum conditions (ASC) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and are becoming or have become more independent 
• Disengage when faced with independent tasks
• Become upset or distressed regarding a change
• Avoid talking about a transition or change
• Require additional support for areas related to independence such as; eating and drinking, domestic tasks, shopping, planning, cleanliness and health, getting dressed, monitoring time and using money

If you would like to learn more about how a preparation for independence interventioncould bring benefits into your own or other people's lives then please reach out to us to find out more.

What are the benefits of a preparation for independence intervention?

A preparation for independence intervention has the potential to bring a number of benefits into the life of the young person, including:

• Increased confidence in ability to complete tasks
• Personal development
• A personalised input plan
• Specialist approaches across multiple areas of need
• Achievement of personal goals
• The opportunity to live away from home
• Improved skills in specific areas
• Reduced avoidance in relation to an upcoming transition

During and following a preparation for independence interventionthere will be recommendations for supporting the young person. These recommendations will help the young person to feel supported and secure during their transition to independence.

What happens prior to a preparation for independence intervention?

A preparation for independence intervention can be carried out after an initial discussion in oe of our central Manchester clinics. Read further about our procedure below.

What happens during a preparation for independence intervention?

A preparation for independence intervention involves working with the young person directly, and also working with adults who support them. 

During a preparation for independence intervention with HSR Psychology, we will work closely with the young person and the adults around them to identify their level of need appropriately and their capacity to live independently. This information will lead to the creation of a plan to work towards a stepped approach to independence. Each intervention is bespoke according to the young person’s unique needs. Together, the young person, the HSR Psychology specialist and if needed, the wider multidisciplinary team, will plan and work towards different areas of independence. 

HSR Psychology’s wider multidisciplinary team includes:

• Occupational therapists
• Speech and language therapists
• Physiotherapists
• Dietitians
• Assistants

The HSR Psychology team will focus on planning and working towards a range of goals which are meaningful and achievable for the individual. When preparing for independence, it is important not to attempt to do too many things too soon. Small successes and achievements support a young person to feel confident that they are working towards a greater goal. Small goals will be agreed and reviewed throughout the intervention and adapted as necessary. 

One aspect of a preparation for independence intervention may include psychological strategies to accept that there may be certain areas where full independence may not be possible. 

What happens after a preparation for independence intervention?

After a preparation for independence interventionthe young person will have the confidence and ability to face more activities independently. Following a preparation for independence intervention follow up sessions could be suggested. Outcomes from a preparation for independence interventions can be provided through a single session in which feedback will be given, or a written report. We offer you the option to receive support post-intervention along with help throughout the intervention itself.

Does a preparation for independence intervention come with a report?

A report following an intervention is often recommended. This report details: what took place, the consequences of our input and recommendations for continuing to work towards independence. An extensive and detailed report is available after a preparation for independence intervention highlighting effective strategies for working towards independence. Read more about our reports.