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Preparing for adulthood/ post 16

It is an exciting time, but we know that this can be a difficult time for some young people and their families, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) complex physical or mental health needs, those with care needs, their parents/carers and young carers.

For these young people and their parents or carers, the preparing for adulthood process can need more thought and careful preparation than for other young people of a similar age, due to changes in the services and support they have known throughout childhood. 

The post 16 process will be personalised to your needs and individual situation. Planning and preparing early will help make it a more positive experience. It will also help maintain your well-being, build confidence and independence for moving into adulthood.

See the latest news posts for post 16


We have developed a guide to show you what should happen and when at every part of the process.


Council for Disabled Children

Council for Disabled Children – preparing for adulthood


Decision making toolkit

This is designed to be used in partnership with young people to support them to make their own decisions and participate in decisions made on their behalf. 

Decision Making Toolkit (councilfordisabledchildren.org.uk)