The term “Preparing for Adulthood” (PfA) is used to describe the move from childhood into adult life.
It takes place when a young person moves from children’s services to adult services, or when young people start to think about what they want to do as an adult.
This usually happens between the ages of 14 and 25. Although in Portsmouth, we might start asking you to think about adult life from year 6 if you have an EHCP.
The government have funded a programme called ” Preparing for Adulthood”. This programme aims to make sure Young People with SEND have equal life chances as they move into adulthood. For example, paid employment, housing, independent living, choice and control, friends and relationships.
Preparing for Adulthood themes
- Higher Education and/or employment – including looking at different employment options, such as support for becoming self-employed and help from supported employment agencies
- Independent living – this means young people have choice, control and freedom over their lives and the support they have, their accommodation and living arrangements, including supported living
- Participating in society – including having friends and supportive relationships, and participating in, and contributing to, the local community
- Being as healthy as possible in adult life – ensuring access to the right health professionals who understand the young person’s learning difficulties and disabilities
Visit the Preparing for Adulthood Portsmouth Local Offer pages to find out more about these four areas.
You can find out more about the government programme at www.preparingforadulthood.org.uk
