What is changing in adult life
Most people finish further education by 19, but some need longer. Your EHC plan ends when your education or training outcomes are achieved. Adult social care support uses a financial assessment to decide if you contribute to costs. Work and study support can continue through Access to Work and Disabled Students’ Allowances.
What to do now
- Focus on your goals for work, learning and independent living; review support each year.
- If you have eligible adult social care needs, prepare for your financial assessment and any changes you may need to tell us about.
- Keep building independence skills and community connections – travel, money, friendships, activities.
- Check housing plans and support regularly; adjust as your goals change.
Education, employment and training and meaningful purposeful activities
Most young people with Education, Health and Care plans will have completed their further education by the age of 19. But some do need longer to complete their education and training. EHCplan Annual Reviews include a focus on preparing for adulthood. This can include support to:
- consider areas of interest in preparing for next steps in education and employment, including arranging visits to local next step options
- prepare for living on your own
- stay healthy in adult life
- take part in society, including support with making and keeping friendships and relationships
- consider whether a referral to Adult Social Care is needed for support at 18 years
An EHC plan will not be stopped as soon as you turn 19, but it will take account of whether the education or training outcomes have been achieved.
When you are close to finishing your education and training, the final annual review should be used to agree the support needed to help engage with adult services.
Social care and paying for your care
As an adult, you may be asked to contribute to the cost of your care. A financial assessment looks at what you can afford each year. You must tell the Council if your finances significantly change for example receiving an inheritance or your savings dropping below the limit.
Find more information on Help with paying for care and support.
Transport and travel
Some 19 to 25-year-olds in education can get travel assistance for a first course based on individual need. Applications are annual and don’t roll over.
Read more on Over 16 student transport
Money
If you claim benefits, a work coach may help you identify barriers and support. Access to Work can fund the help you need to do your job well.
More information on Support for work and Access to Work
Disabled Students’ Allowance can fund equipment, non-medical help and extra travel support in higher education.
More information on Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) and support in Higher education