Things to consider for adulthood and Preparing for Adulthood (PfA) Guide

Education, training and finding employment

Continue discussions about future plans and explore a range of options. Ask your school about post-16 support and planning advice.

Visit the websites of education providers to check for courses and for open evenings / days.

Most post-16 education is 16 hours per week. Think about what your young person will do throughout the week and any support that may be needed.

Remember: The school year finishes early in year 11, regardless of whether young people are taking exams or not. It finishes on the last Friday in June. Check with the school in good time to make alternative arrangements.

Developing independence

Young people are assumed to be able to make many decisions for themselves once they turn 16 years of age, and services will often contact them directly. The Mental Capacity Act relates to people aged 16 years and over who are unable to make some or all decisions by themselves.

On turning 16 years of age, benefits may change. Consider opening a separate bank account for your young person’s benefits and other monies now, before they turn 18 years of age.

Friends, relationships, and community

Think about how to maintain friendship groups after school ends.

Support your young person to plan how to keep in touch with others and vice versa.

Talk to school, General Practitioner (GP), sexual health clinics for advice and information about relationships.

Good health

Your young person is considered old enough to consent to their own medical treatment.

If they are unable to do so, a health professional will use the Mental Capacity Act.

From the age of 16 years, adult health services can start to provide healthcare for young people. This depends on the service, so seek advice from the health professional.

Fill in Health Passport which provides key information for health professionals.

Annual health checks via General Practitioner (GP) continue for people with diagnosed learning disabilities aged 14 years and over.

In addition, if you have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)

At the annual review of the EHCP, discuss what needs to happen to ensure a smooth transition. The long term, wider, hopes and aspirations of your young person should be central to the discussion.

Your caseworker or Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) will ask for your young person’s post-16 preferences in the autumn of year 11. The local authority must issue an amended EHCP naming your young person’s post-16 provision by 31 March. Rear more about applying for a school place in York.

When a young person turns 16 years of age, some rights related to EHCP's transfer from the parents to the young person.