Transitioning from childhood to adulthood

[Poogie81]

My step daughter has mild learning disabilities, has an ehcp at school is turning 18 in August and doesn't seem to be getting alot of help with regards to her future and long term goals. She has type 1 diabetes and epilepsy also. She is capable of getting a job and living independently with a bit of support but no-one seems to be helping her with this. She is at college bit they don't think she will be able to progress to the next level of her course due to her learning abilities. But no ideas as to where she goes next? Any advice would be gratefully received

[Me1648]

Hello I to was very much like your daughter when I left school/sixth form with my farther who just wanted me to get a job to not earning any money I thankfully talked to college counsellor one who supported and guided me to where I am now with West Sussex County Council who suggested I get help from Mencap and work aid.

My goal was to get to a level 3 course as I was always told within my school that due to my learning difficulties I would never get to a level 3 as they are I would find them to difficult and sure over time I did have to do some simple courses I got to my dream level 3 course in which I achieved a distinction in both years. It was a struggle but it was truly worth it and I’m now volunteering in the theatre while doing a free catering assistant course run by Mencap. As well as this I’m getting support by Work Aid who supports me in finding a job as I am constantly getting ignored. I highly recommend you keep your daughter in education for as long as you can and contact your local charities for support.

I know it might seem dark but there is always help out there I had awful seizures since leaving school due to the stress I encountered but thankfully I have gotten much better.

[Positivepixie in reply to Me1648]

Well done you ! Your story is very inspiring

[lecsmum]

It may be an idea to start researching Training or courses specifically for a job, My girl worked in charity shops for a while, helped out at animal rescue centres that sort of thing, hands on training! good luck!

[sedleywilson]

i have a mild leraning disability myself try and find a loal disability group i n your area

sedley

[BenjiB]

An EHCP goes up to 25. Her EHCP needs to reflect her needs and a course needs to be found which she can progress with. local Authorities are renowned for trying to cease EHCP’s at 19. We had to go to tribunal for our sons and he’ll be in full time education until he’s 24 as that’s when his course finishes. If her EHCP is due for review then all good but if it’s not you may need to call an early review to address these issues. If she wants to leave education the she’ll need support to do that. Dues she have a social worker?