Growing up and becoming an adult is an exciting time, but it can also bring new challenges and decisions. For children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), planning for adulthood should begin early and focus on helping them achieve their goals, be as independent as possible, and live a fulfilling life. The Children and Families Act 2014 and the SEND Code of Practice 2015 places a strong emphasis on preparing children and young people for adult life.  

What is Preparing for Adult Life? 

Preparing for Adulthood (PfAL) is about helping children and young people develop the skills, confidence and support they need to achieve their future aspirations. This should not start when a young person leaves school. Instead, planning should happen throughout childhood and become a key focus from Year 9 (aged 13-14) onwards.  

The SEND Code of Practice identifies four main areas of Preparing for Adulthood: 

1. Employment and Higher Education 

Helping young people to: 

  • Develop skills for work 

  • Explore career options 

  • Access apprenticeships, supported internships, college courses or university 

  • Gain work experience and volunteering opportunities 

  • Build confidence and independence 

The long-term aim is for young people to have opportunities for meaningful employment wherever possible.  

2. Independent Living 

This includes: 

  • Developing daily living skills 

  • Managing money 

  • Learning travel skills 

  • Understanding housing options 

  • Making choices about where and with whom they live 

Independent living means having as much choice and control over life as possible, whether living independently, with family, or in supported accommodation.  

3. Good Health 

Preparing for adulthood includes: 

  • Understanding health needs 

  • Developing healthy lifestyles 

  • Learning to manage appointments and medication where appropriate 

  • Planning the transition from children's to adult health services 

Good planning can help ensure support continues smoothly as young people move into adult services.  

4. Friends, Relationships and Community Inclusion 

Young people should be supported to: 

  • Develop friendships 

  • Participate in leisure activities 

  • Access community groups 

  • Build relationships 

  • Take part in their local community 

Being connected to others is an important part of wellbeing and adulthood.  

Your Rights as a Parent or Carer 

The SEND system is built on the principle that children, young people and families should be involved in decisions that affect them. Local authorities, schools, colleges and health services should: 

  • Listen to your views 

  • Involve you in planning and decision-making 

  • Work together to support agreed outcomes 

  • Provide information, advice and support 

  • Focus on helping your child achieve their aspirations and outcomes  

As your child grows older, they should also be supported to express their own views and make decisions where possible. 

What if My Child Has an EHCP? 

An EHCP can continue up to the age of 25 if the young person remains in education or training and still requires the specialist support provided through an EHCP. The plan should continue to focus on outcomes that help the young person prepare for adult life.  

From the Year 9 Annual Review of an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), there must be a clear focus on Preparing for Adulthood. Planning should consider the young person's aspirations and identify the support needed to achieve them.  

Discussions might include: 

  • Future education or training options 

  • Employment goals 

  • Independent living skills 

  • Social opportunities 

  • Health needs 

  • Travel training 

  • Community participation 

The young person's views, wishes and feelings should be at the centre of these discussions.  

Not all young people with SEND will need an EHCP to access Preparing for Adulthood support. Schools, colleges, health services and local authorities should promote these opportunities for all children and young people with SEND.  

How Can Families Support Preparing for Adulthood? 

You can help by: 

  • Encouraging your child to take part in decisions 

  • Talking about future hopes and goals 

  • Developing independence skills at home 

  • Exploring community activities and clubs 

  • Looking into careers, college courses and training opportunities 

  • Attending annual reviews and planning meetings 

  • Asking professionals how Preparing for Adulthood outcomes are being included in support plans 

Remember, aspirations can change over time. Planning should be flexible and centred on what matters most to your child or young person.