Age 16 to 18

Education

This phase of education for 16 to 18 year olds is also known as Key Stage 5.

You can continue to look at a range of options, such as:

  • supported employment
  • apprenticeships
  • work-based learning
  • work-related learning at college
  • paid work
  • self-employment 
  • higher education
  • volunteering

There are lots of post 16 education or training options available in Lancashire and you will need to think about which one will best suit your needs, interests and future plans.

Friendships and leisure opportunities

Look at any out-of-school/college activities you want to do. This may include time spent away from home and the local area. 

You may want to join a youth club or other youth groups in your local area. There are some groups just for young people with SEND.

You can find out more about what's on across all services at Lancashire County Council and on the SEND Directory.

If you're not already, you may also be eligible to become a Break Time member which provides you with opportunities to make friends at fun group activities.

The holiday, activities and food (HAF) programme is also available for children on free school meals or with SEND.

Parent carers who use Facebook can follow "Lancashire Local Offer" on Facebook to see details of events, groups and activities for children and young people with SEND.

Health

At this age, health professionals will consider a Mental Capacity Act assessment if a young person is unable to make some/all decisions for themselves.

If your GP is your main contact for health, they should be informed of your EHCP annual review. The GP may wish to contribute or provide information to support the review.

You may need a continuing health care (adults) assessment. Health professionals involved should consider if this is appropriate. They will agree who is best placed to complete it.

CAMHS will ensure that referrals are made to the appropriate adult mental health service for any young people and young carers who may meet the criteria for care and support as an adult. CAMHS transition takes place at 17 years and 6 months.

Social care support for children and families

As you approach your 18th birthday, the Transition Service will support you moving into adult social care if you meet the criteria for support.

The team will talk to you and any people important to you about your strengths and needs. They will support you to think about what is available in your community to help you achieve your goals. They will offer you an assessment which will help decide what care and support the council might provide.

If you need a package of care, this will be arranged before you become an adult so that everything is in place for your 18th birthday.

You can find out more about the support you could get on the adult social care pages. These include the criteria for support, assessing your needs and planning your support.

You could get help from the Adult Disability Service, or Enablement Service, to help you develop confidence and skills to be more independent.