I am a young person
Welcome to the Southend SEND Local Offer section for young people. We hope you are able to find quick and easy information to support you.
To find information you can:
- read the answers to the questions by clicking on them below
- click on the search icon and enter keywords at the top of the page
- click on the following topics:
Events and activities (things to do)
Money, housing and legal information
If you feel we have missed anything:
- email us at localoffer@southend.gov.uk
- message us on social media through Facebook or Instagram.
- or phone us - 01702 212328
What things do I need to think about as I become an adult?
The Local Offer is here to help you prepare for adulthood.
We even have a team, the SEND Preparing for Adulthood Team. The team supports those in Year 9 who have an Education, Health and Care Plan (or EHCP for short), and those who are likely to find moving on from school difficult.
There are 4 key things you need to think about and start planning for as you move into adulthood. 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.
- 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.
What is an Education, Health and Care Plan and how do I get one?
Personal budgets and direct payments
A personal budget is funding allocated to meet the additional and individual support needs of children and young people. It is allocated when it is clear that a child or young person’s needs cannot be met fully by mainstream or targeted services without extra support being in place.
There are 3 types of personal budget available.
Personal health budgets:
The right to have a personal health budget applies if you are under 18 and eligible for NHS continuing care, or if you are 18 or above and eligible for NHS continuing healthcare. Find out more about Personal Health Budgets.
Who can help me with SEND processes and policies?
What housing options are available if I want to live independently?
Southend Preparing for Adulthood Team
AskSara is an award-winning onlline self-help guide providing expert advice and information on products and equipment for older and disabled people. Visit the AskSARA website.
How can I make friends and get involved in my community?
There are lots of clubs and activities you can take part in.
Some of these include:
- Friends and Places together for 16-25 year olds
- Additional Needs Night at the Mega Centre, Rayleigh
- Southend Mencap - 16+ Club
- Active Essex Disability Sport
- Club Inklusion
- Total Palace
- Project 49
- Full list of activities and clubs
You may also want to watch this video called "Tricky Friends" to help you stay safe.
What learning, training or employment options do I have now that I have left school?
Can I get help with transport to college or training?
How do I raise a concern or make a complaint?
Where can I get help with my mental health?
There are lots of organisations who can help you. You can find them all here
If you'd like to view this content in another format please email livewell@southend.gov.uk