Help for young people with additional needs

Transition plans

Connexions personal advisers and school Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCO) give teenagers with special needs and disabilities extra support with transition planning.

Alongside the yearly requirement to review the statement of special educational needs, a transition plan for adulthood must also be developed in Years 9, 10 and 11. This should be drawn up with your teenager at the centre of the discussion, focusing on their interests and what they would like to do in the future, and considering all options with them and with you. Other professionals involved in your teenager's life may also contribute.

Once the transition plan is in place, the Connexions personal adviser will help put it into action, including building in your teenager's specific support needs. Connexions can continue to provide support until your teenager is 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.

You may find the support organisations below useful.

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

Transition Information Network - Support for disabled young people