SEND Next choices - getting ready for adult life

The event provides an opportunity for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and their parents, carers, support workers and teachers to prepare themselves for adult life. Visitors were able to find out about jobs, training, apprenticeships, college courses, voluntary work, leisure activities, finances, support and benefits available in Leeds. 

There are also information sessions about supported internships and financial support. The event  provides the opportunity for visitors to meet organisations who provide support as you move into adult life. 

"A well organised and inclusive event. We were able to connect with lots of young people and their parents and carers who can now access our support. We need more events like this across the country! Staff were supportive and friendly and the exhibitor networking hour was very interesting also"

Click on the videos below to hear more from exhibitors.

"We heard about the event from her school and went along. We couldn't believe the amount of support is out there. My daughter has autism and we had struggled to find things suitable for her, but at the event everything was in one place. She joined an arts club and started a course at Leeds City College. Its changed our lives so much. She is now so much happier. She has new friends, hobbies and she has a future. I also joined a group to support parents and my confidence has grown. I would really recommend the event."

"I saw the event advertised on a Facebook group and booked a ticket for me and my daughter. She was really nervous at first as the arena is quite big but she was able to calm down by doing some colouring activities. We spoke to so many people after that who just wanted to help and support us, it was amazing. She's still at college for the moment, but now we have ideas and plans for her future. We attended some talks at the event and it helped us apply for financial support. I'd really recommend the event."