INTO ADULTHOOD: THE VOCATIONAL SITUATION OF YOUNG PEOPLE WITH SEVERE LEARNING DIFFICULTIES

Described the vocational situations of 99 Ss with severe learning difficulties (aged 16–24 yrs) who were either living at home with carers or in small living situations of 6 or fewer people. Few people were found in ordinary (as opposed to specialist, educational, or vocational) settings. Of school-aged children, 73% were receiving their education in a special school. The majority of Ss (aged 19–21 yrs) attended an Adult Training Center (ATC) part or full time, and 12% were in some form of employment. 80% of Ss aged 22–24 yrs attended ATCs, and no one was in any form of employment activity. Respondents indicated a high level of dissatisfaction with the vocational services currently offered.