The High Court yesterday approved proposed arrangements aimed at giving an at-risk boy, who is believed to have high-functioning autism, a "last chance" at living a normal life before turning 18.
Under the arrangements, the boy, who will be 18 next month and who was previously seriously assaulted while placed in St Patrick's Institution, will be transferred from a psychiatric unit to a two-bedroomed flat, including a bedroom for him and the second for nursing staff. Two nurses will be available to him as well as on-call "line management".
A social worker said the intention was to promote the greatest possible independence for the boy. If he made any reasonable request of the carers, they would be happy to support him.
The social worker said they wanted the boy to manage his own money but would have to be satisfied that he would do so safely. At the start, he would be offered a small amount of money. The boy had artistic talents, and they wanted to develop his potential. Cannabis had been particularly detrimental to the boy. Evidence suggested he would have to go back to the psychiatric hospital if he did not co-operate. If there was any sign of substantial cannabis use, steps would be taken to have him admitted to the unit.
After the boy told Mr Justice Kearns that he would try to do his best to make the scheme work, the judge said he would commend the health board for its "superhuman" efforts in the case.