Introduction
kateclarke@southend.gov.ukThe contact for this strategy document is Kate Clarke, Preparing for Adulthood Advisor at Southend-on-Sea City Council.
kateclarke@southend.gov.uk
Introduction:
This strategy outlines Southend SEND, Preparing for Adulthood, vision and priorities for supporting children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), those with and without an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), between the ages of 14 and 25 years of age, and their families in Southend-on-Sea, as they transition into adulthood.
This strategy has been developed in consultation with children, young people, their families, and professionals through multiple engagement sessions, one to one meetings and professional task groups, both in person and online. It involves all partners in Southend-on-Sea responsible for commissioning and providing services for children and young people with SEND. These partners include local authority services, health providers, educational institutions, and the voluntary and community sector.
Our mission:
Children and young people are prepared and supported to thrive at each change in their lives, Southend-on-Sea City Council are committed to enhancing the future for our children and young people with SEND by focusing on key outcomes such as employment opportunities, independent living skills, active participation in society and maintaining good health. Helping the children, and young people of our future to feel secure and confident.
This strategy aims to:
- highlight the challenges that children, and young people with SEND who live in Southend-on Sea face when preparing for adulthood
- set out the principles for how key services will work together to support children, and young people with SEND to prepare for adult life
Our vision:
To empower children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in Southend-on-Sea to transition smoothly into adulthood, achieving their full potential and leading fulfilling, independent lives. We are committed to providing comprehensive support, fostering inclusive communities, and ensuring that every young person has access to the resources, opportunities, and guidance they need to succeed in education, employment, and personal development. This vision was shared with and supported by the Southend SEND Network, the Southend Parent Carer Forum and Southend Youth Council members.
Together we will:
- Empower: we will empower our children, and young people with SEND by equipping them with the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to make informed decisions about their future
- Enhance: we will expand and strengthen pathways into education, employment, and training, ensuring clear, accessible and consistent information. By working collaboratively with families, schools and local partners, we will enable children, and young people to make confident choices and achieve their ambitions
- Thrive: our children, and young people will thrive in an inclusive Southend that supports developing independence, engage in their communities and lead healthy, fulfilling lives