What we do

In March 2011 the government published the Support and aspiration: A new approach to special educational needs and disability green paper, which sets out proposals to reform the system of support for young people with SEN and disabilities and their families.

 


In the green paper, the Government outlines its goal for young people with SEN and disabilities to have the best opportunities and support to succeed in education and their careers, live independently and healthily and be active members of their communities.

At the heart of the proposed reforms is a single assessment process and 'Education, Health and Care Plan' bringing together support for children and young people from birth to 25, and focusing on better life outcomes beyond school or college.

The Department for Education has commissioned a number of delivery partners to support local areas with this work.

The Preparing for Adulthood Programme

A programme of work is now underway to explore these proposals, working with SEND green paper pathfinders. The Preparing for Adulthood programme will also provide knowledge and support to all local authorities and their partners, including families and young people, so they can ensure young people with SEN and disabilities achieve paid work, independent living, good health and community inclusion as they move into adulthood. We will be working with the Department for Education and its partners to:

  • Build on the learning from past initiatives
  • Support peer to peer learning at a local level to improve outcomes
  • Share knowledge of what works, the challenges and solutions with Government, local agencies, families and young people.

The Preparing for Adulthood Programme has three strands of work:

  • Best practice and information sharing
  • Wider support for all local areas
  • Pathfinder support.