Introduction

Welcome to the Southend-on-Sea SEND Local Offer. This is where you will find support and information aimed at helping you.

If there is information you need but cannot find it, or if you need information in a different format:

You may also find the children, young people and families and adults sections of Livewell Southend helpful.

What things do I need to think about as I become an adult?

The SEND Local Offer is here to help you prepare for adulthood.

The Preparing for Adulthood Team supports those in year 9 and above who have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).

There are 4 main things you need to think about and start planning for as you get older. These are sometimes called `preparing for adulthood outcomes':

  • higher education and employment, including self-employment if that is something you are interested in
  • independent living - so you have choice, control and freedom over your life and the support you have. This includes thinking about where you will live and what support you might need
  • participating in your local community and society. This includes having friends and supportive relationships. There are sections about these topics on this page
  • being as healthy as possible in adult life

You can watch a video about the 4 preparing for adulthood outcomes.

If you have an EHCP, your annual reviews from year 9 onwards will include a focus on preparing for adulthood.