Preparation for adulthood
‘Preparing for adulthood’ is the term used to describe moving from being a teenager to being an adult. It means preparing for
- Studying and/or finding a job
- living on your own
- Being part of your community and having friends and relationships.
- Being healthy
If you have an EHCP you will start talking about this in your annual reviews from Year 9.
Whether or not you have an EHCP, it is important to start thinking about your future early so you have time to plan for what you want to do when you are an adult.
If you have SEN support and need more help you can read more about applying for an EHC needs assessment here - Educational health and care (EHC) plans – SEND Local Offer (stoke.gov.uk)
Some things to think about are:
- If you want to continue to study at college or school sixth form?
- What sort of job you would like to do – do you need training to do it?
- Where you want to live?
- How will you manage your money?
- How will you manage your health?
- How will you be a part of your community?
Living independently
Some organisations who might be able to support you to live independently are:
Mencap
Mencap is a charity that is committed to helping people with learning difficulties to live as independently as possible. Go to Mencap's housing page to find out more information about the assistance that they offer, which includes supported living services. Also, read this article by Amy Clarke, Living independently, who writes about her experience living in supported housing, as well as independently.
NHS
The NHS also gives useful information on supported living services. Follow this link to find out more about NHS supported living services.
Shared Lives
Shared Lives Stoke will match someone who needs care and support with an approved carer. They will consider the likes, dislikes, hobbies and interests of the person and the carer before introducing them to each other. The carer shares their family and community life, and gives care and support to the person with care needs. Some people move in permanently with their shared lives carer, while others may only stay for a few nights. Find out more about Shared Lives on their website
Scope
Scope is a charity with a page on their website which offers useful information for parents with a disabled adolescent who wants to live independently in the next few years. Follow the link to go to the Life Skills to Help Your Disabled Child to Become Independent page.
Contact
Contact is a charity for families with disabled children. It has a helpful page that gives advice for how to help children with disabilities live independently, including topics such as independent travel, money management and making friends. Find out more about Contact on their website.