For the first time ever, young adults across Cambridgeshire with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), have helped shape their journey to adulthood by designing an event.
The event, Preparing for Adulthood, produced by young people working with Cambridgeshire County Council, is for 14 to 25-year-olds with SEND, as well as professionals, parents, and carers.
It takes place from 10am to 2pm on Friday 3 May 2024 at Burgess Hall, St Ives. It will provide crucial information and resources to empower young adults with SEND and their families and carers. Register now.
Before the event, Cambridgeshire County Council are offering a mix of in-person and online sessions. They are taking place from Monday 22 April to Thursday 2 May. Find out more and register.
Navigating the path to adulthood can present unique challenges. Understanding the complexities of transitioning into adulthood including education, employment, independent living, and accessing support services, is paramount for their future success and wellbeing.
Key highlights of the event include information sessions on topics such as:
- Job coaching advice: conversations with the Job Centre, Job Coaches, career advisors and Special Educational Needs and Disability Information, Advice and Support Service (SENDIASS). Covering a range of topics including career training, higher education opportunities, financial planning, independent living skills, and accessing support services.
- Mental health and wellbeing: talks and sessions focused on mental health awareness, physical fitness, and nutrition to empower and prioritise self-care.
- Networking opportunities: Attendees will have the chance to connect with peers, professionals, and organisations dedicated to supporting individuals with SEND, fostering a supportive network and community.
- Fun activities: such as bowling, a silent disco, ping-pong and an indoor picnic.
- Accessible information: The event will ensure accessibility for all attendees, including those with diverse communication and accessibility needs, to ensure that everyone can fully participate and benefit from the valuable information and resources available.
Councillor Bryony Goodliffe, Chair of Cambridgeshire County Council’s Children and Young People’s Committee said: "We are thrilled that young adults with SEND have been pivotal in creating this new annual event.
"By working alongside these young adults, we’ve been able to tailor comprehensive information, resources, and support, to help them enjoy healthy, safe, and independent lives as they enter adulthood. This is just one example of how we’re becoming more caring across Cambridgeshire".
Find further information and register.
All questions should be directed to Marty, Preparing for Adulthood Lead, at Martine.Simpson-Thomas@cambridgeshire.gov.uk
