Support for families and young adults

Being a young adult, parent, or carer of a child with special needs can be both amazing and sometimes challenging.

Everyone needs a little bit of extra support at some point in their lives, and there is support available for you and your family.

In addition to the information and advice below, Plymouth has an Early Help and SEND Advice Line. You can book a conversation with a Family Support Worker to discuss worries or questions. Just call 01752 668000, or email AccessEarlyHelp@plymouth.gov.uk.

Decisions about post-16 placements

As a young adult with special educational needs, you have the opportunity to continue your education, enhance your employability, and prepare for adult life by pursuing post-16 further education.

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Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP)

An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is a document that supports children and young people with special educational needs in education.

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I think I might have special needs

If you think you may have a special educational need or disability (SEND), it can be really worrying. The purpose of this section of Plymouth's local offer is to give you some ideas about what to do next.

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The Mental Capacity Act

The Mental Capacity Act (MCA) is important for young adults with special educational needs (SEN) because it ensures that they have the right to make decisions for themselves, whenever possible, and that those decisions are made in their best interests.

View page (Go to The Mental Capacity Act)