Help for young people with additional needs

Teenagers with special needs or disabilities can get additional help and support from their Connexions personal adviser and the school's Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO).

Transition plans

Young people with statements of special educational needs must, by law, have a future education plan agreed and recorded in a formal document often called a transition plan. You will be invited to the Year 9 annual (transition) review, usually with your teenager, where you will have the chance to discuss what you would like included in the transition plan. Your teenager's Connexions personal adviser will also help write the plan and provide ongoing support to put it into action. Support from Connexions for young people with statements of special needs continues until your teenager reaches the age of 25.

A network of support

When your teenager has a special need or disability, there are a number of things to think about, such as finding the best healthcare or therapy, supporting them at school and investigating the services and opportunities available. There are networks of organisations that can offer you support and resources to help you meet these challenges.

See below for some relevant support organisations you may find useful. Click on each organisation to reveal more information and contact details.

Contact a Family - Support and advice

Directgov: public service information - For people with disabilities

Disabled Parents Network - For parents with disabilities

National Parent Partnership Network - For parents of young people with special needs

Shaw Trust - For young people with disabilities

Skill - National Bureau for Students with Disabilities

Teachernet - Information for parents and carers

Transition Information Network - Support for disabled young people