Informed Choice for Disabled Young People in Transition: A Secondary Analysis of Qualitative Data

Abstract

This paper explores informed choice (a key component of self-directed support and personalised services) for disabled young people in transition by means of secondary analysis of archived qualitative interview data using a thematic network approach. Insights were gained into the roles of parents, professionals and how information is used in informing choice for disabled young people. The findings add value to this emerging area of policy and practice by identifying facilitators and barriers to informed choice for disabled young people in transition. Choice-making was seen to involve both rational and emotional components in which experiential knowledge was highly valued. The role of professionals was perceived by most interviewees as being absent or unhelpful. However, the opportunity for supportive and informative relationships between workers and disabled young people was possible in situations where longer term and consistent contact was evident.