RTX 17: Transition from the Service System
|
|
Individuals transitioning to the community participate in
planning for a transition and are prepared with positive experiences and skills to make a successful move.
Interpretation: The decision to develop a plan for returning to the community is based on the
service recipient’s preparedness and wishes, unless the transition is mandated.
Interpretation: When the organization serves young children, the parent or
legal guardian is informed of and involved in the transition process.
The organization provides individuals transitioning to the community with at least six months advance notice of the cessation of any health, financial, or other benefits that may occur at transition.
The organization and the resident work together to develop a plan for living in the community.
The organization prepares individuals for a successful transition by providing:
- for transfer or termination of custody for youth, as applicable;
- information about rights and services to which the person may have access as a result of a disability;
- information about availability of community resources, including affordable healthcare and counseling;
- court and welfare systems information;
- child care services information, as applicable; and
- support through community volunteers or persons who have made a successful transition, as appropriate.
During the transition process, and prior to
case closing, the organization explores a range of housing options with individuals and engages them in an
evaluation of the risks and benefits of various living situations and independence from the organization.
Interpretation: Options may include the full range of housing options from supported living to fully independent living environments.
NA The individual is not transitioning to an independent living situation.
For every person transitioning to independence, the organization ensures that basic resources are in place, including:
- a safe, stable living arrangement;
- a source of income;
- affordable health care;
- access to at least one committed, caring adult; and
- access to positive peer support.
 |
Research Note: Research indicates that many youth who have been separated from their homes experience high levels of housing instability and are at increased risk for homelessness. Accordingly, some experts emphasize the importance of providing concrete assistance to help youth secure appropriate housing and recommend that independent living programs subsidize rental costs or develop transitional housing programs. Financial assistance for room and board may be available to former foster youth through the Chafee Foster Care Independence Program. |
 |
NA The individual is not transitioning to an independent living situation.
The organization assists individuals in obtaining or compiling documents necessary to function independently, including, as appropriate:
- an identification card;
- a social security or social insurance number;
- a resume, when work experience can be described;
- a driver’s license, when the ability to drive is a goal;
- medical records and documentation, including a Medicaid card or other health eligibility documentation;
- an original copy of the birth certificate;
- religious documents and information;
- documentation of immigration, citizenship, or naturalization, when applicable;
- death certificates when parents are deceased;
- a life book or a compilation of personal history and photographs, as appropriate;
- a list of known relatives, with relationships, addresses, telephone numbers, and permissions for contacting involved parties;
- previous placement information and health facilities used, when age-appropriate; and
- educational records, such as high school diploma or general equivalency diploma, and a list of schools attended, when age-appropriate.
Interpretation: When the organization serves young children, the parent or legal guardian is informed of and involved in the transition process.
As a continuing resource for information, crisis management, referral, and support, the organization provides each person with:
- a transition plan summary, including the individual’s options;
- a list of emergency contacts; and
- contact information for the organization if the plan cannot be carried out.
