Leaving home for the first time is tough.

For parents and their children it marks a shift in the relationship that can be both feared and welcomed. In Moving On, we follow the progress of Cathy and Peter as they move into independence, learning how to cope with the world of work, relationships, and the supermarket.

Cathy is 38. Her parents, Moya and Michael, are now in their seventies and in poor health. Cathy is charming, quirky and very very exuberant about her move into independence. It’s impossible to predict whether she will manage the break, her first time away from Mum and Dad.

Peter is 32, and until ten years ago, a paralympic goalie. He has the looks of a matinee idol, and has been looked after by Marianne, his 72 year old tapdancing mother.

She is keen to have him move out and into independence so that she can get her own life back on track. His last try at living independently broke down and he is very eager to give it another go.

Behind the stories
Of the 20.5 million households in England, only 0.7% of houses have all four of the access features that are now part of Building Regulations in England and Wales.

50% of disabled people of working age are in paid employment, while this drops to 17% of people with learning difficulties. 80% of non disabled are in employment.

Where do people with learning difficulties live?
Hospital 1%
With parents 50%
With other relatives 12%
Alone 4%
With partner 3%
Supporting people 11%
Residential care 19%

Content last updated: 09/11/2006