1 Preparing for Adulthood Supporting young people to move into adulthood with better life outcomes Ellen Atkinson 9th May 2013

2 National context The current system is not working for families and children: Too many children with SEN have their needs picked up late; Young people with SEN do less well than their peers at school and college and are more likely to be out of education, training and employment at 18; Schools and colleges can focus too much on the SEN label rather than meeting the child’s needs with a focus on life outcomes; Aspirations for children and young people need to be raised through an increased focus on life outcomes. More streamlined process, integrating education, health and care services and a new 0-25 Education, Health and Care Plan, replacing the current system of Statements and Learning Difficulty Assessments.

3 What we know.... Poor outcomes for young people, particularly in employment, independent living, health and community inclusion No increase in the employment rate Less than 6.4% of people with learning disabilities in paid employment Parents (and young people) often don’t know what’s possible Not enough good supported employment Low expectations about what young people with learning disabilities can achieve. 3

4 What works.... Raising employment aspirations and expectations of children and young people, families and everyone who supports them Person-centred transition planning with a focus on employment Welfare advice, ‘better off’ calculations Real work experience, so that families see that work is positive and possible Vocational curriculum that supports young people’s aspirations Supported employment organisations working with young people in school and good supported employment from 16+ Supported internships - being trialled at 15 colleges for young people who have complex learning difficulties or disabilities. Study programmes providing structured learning with an employer that is tailored to the individual needs of the young person.

5 Sajeel’s supported internship with Manchester City Council Customer Service Assistant. Based at Manchester Town Hall. Works on the main reception desk and at the Lloyd Street entrance.

Start at the beginning.... Build the key messages into Early Years work Ensure young disabled people are employed in places families use the most Provide information on what is available to help people achieve good outcomes (local offer) and get feedback from families. Provide opportunities for families to meet young people who are in paid employment, who live independently, have good health and are part of their community, with friends and relationships.

7 Preparing for Adulthood Contact details Ellen Atkinson or Web: FB: Twitter: Phone:

8 Developing local pathways that lead to good life outcomes ? 8