Preparation for Adulthood annual SEND event proves a hit

More than 200 young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in Sutton attended the Council’s second Preparation for Adulthood event, which proved a smash hit with its audience.

The event, aimed at showcasing services and support across the borough for young people aged 14 to 25 with SEND, as they move forward into adulthood.

Along with the young people themselves, teaching and support staff, over 50 different services, organisations, community groups and charities from across the borough took part in the event.

Preparation for adulthood is all about supporting young people as they make the transition to adulthood, with:

• Supported employment
• Independence
• Community inclusion
• Health and wellbeing

As well as workshops about those important issues, there were also lots of organised games, fun activities and a free raffle with prizes kindly donated by local businesses. 

Councillor Marian James, Chair of Sutton Council’s People Committee, said: “We are ambitious for young people with SEND in Sutton, and in making our borough more inclusive for everyone.

“There are so many people and services who have such a passion for supporting young people with SEND in Sutton. I hope this has both inspired and given new confidence in our young people as they move towards adulthood and independence. Huge thanks to everyone involved in today’s fantastic event! And thank you to our event sponsors, the South London Partnership.”

A spokesperson from the South London Partnership, said: “For the second year in a row, the South London Careers Hub is pleased to have sponsored the Preparing for Adulthood SEND event in Sutton.  These events are vitally important, highlighting to young people, their families and wider networks, the support available across the borough and helping them prepare and move forward into adulthood. It was inspiring to see so many young people in attendance and we were encouraged to see the large number of organisations, who were out in force, committed to supporting every young person take their best next step.”

Young people with SEND were invited to get involved in and help plan the event. They helped by designing event posters, organising the raffle and prizes and helping facilitate the ‘shopping’ activity. Two young people also acted as official photographer, videographer and social media leads on the day! 

Thank you to all those who took part in the event.