Inspiring event for young people

Young people with learning disabilities are being given a taste of life after school at an event aimed at inspiring decisions and providing choice.

‘Aspire’ is an event organised by Plymouth City Council for parents, carers and, most importantly, young people with learning disabilities to find out more about the options open to them after they turn 16.

This type of support is known as ‘transition’ and aims to make the move from childhood to adulthood easier and, in particular, the change from children’s to adult social care services smoother.

It is open to all Plymouth students aged 14 and above with statements of special educational needs/learning disability assessments and Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plans and will showcase a range of post 16 opportunities available in and around Plymouth.

Jo Siney, Head of Special Education Needs and Disability (SEND) said: “Most young people look forward to leaving school and starting the next phase of their life with great excitement. But we know that for some young people with SEND transition to adulthood can feel like a difficult time. The Aspire event has been designed to let young people know about a range of opportunities out there for them and give them ideas as to how they can fulfil their ambitions.”

The event will take place on Monday 28 September at the Plymouth Guildhall from 10am to 2pm and there will be activities for young people to try out including New Age Curling, Bocha and table tennis. There will also be dance workshops by Clair Beckett Dance and workshops by Animate Theatre.

Councillor Sue McDonald, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Public Health, said: “Our Aspire event will show young people the opportunities that are out there and encourage them to set their sights high in both their personal and career choices. We are absolutely committed to providing good quality support for young people with learning disabilities as they make the transition towards personal independence.”

For more information about transition services in Plymouth visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/transition