Planning for adulthood: annual reviews and support

Planning for adulthood starts in Year 9

If you're 13 to 14, it's time to start thinking about your future. This is called preparing for adulthood (PfA). You, your family and your school will begin discussing what you want your adult life to look like.

If you have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), your school must include the four PfA outcomes in your plan:

• Education or work – what you want to study or do for a job
• Independent living – where and how you might live
• Community and friendships – how you'll be part of your community
• Health and well-being – how to stay healthy and happy 

Your year 9 annual review

Your annual review in Year 9 is a key moment. This meeting focuses on you, your hopes, dreams, and goals. 

Your school includes the four PfA outcomes in your Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP):

• what you enjoy
• what you want to do in the future
• what support you might need 

This is called person-centred planning. It means your plan is built around your life, not just services.

Even if you don't have an EHCP, your school should still help you plan for the future. Ask about careers advice or transition support.

Changes at age 16

When you turn 16, you start deciding about your education and care. You may also:

• switch from Disability Living Allowance (DLA) to Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
• learn independence skills, like travelling on your own 

Turning 18 and becoming an adult

At 18, you become a legal adult. Planning helps make this a smooth change.

If you need ongoing support:

• we will do a transition assessment to plan adult social care
• children's services will continue until adult services are ready, so there's no gap in support
• health services will help you move from children's to adult care (for example, switching from a paediatrician to a GP) 

Useful resources

• Preparing for Adulthood (NDTi) – guides and planning tools for young people, families and professionals
• Oxfordshire Family Support Network – PfA Checklists – step-by-step guides for each age leading up to 18
• SENDIASS Oxfordshire – free, impartial advice for young people and families 

Need help?

Ask your teacher, SENCO or a trusted adult with any questions. You can also speak to an advocate (someone who helps you say what you want).

This is your journey. Everyone around you is here to help you build the future you want.