Supporting a young adult with SEND as they move away
from home

Moving on up

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Handing over – practical preparation tips

Whether you’ve been supporting your young person for years, or their differences have only recently come to light, it’s a big change when they start needing to advocate for themselves.

But it’s a shift you can prepare them for, and support them with remotely.

SEND system differences

The SEND system is different between the four nations of the UK, with different terminology too.

The Disabled Students’ Allowance applies in all nations, but the limits and structure are different. Check in your local area for more information.

Here are some practical ideas to help smooth the path:

Gather evidence before your young person leaves school. The university or college may want evidence of a diagnosis and of support already in place, such as exam arrangements. You may need to ask your young person’s SENCO or GP for a written report of this, especially if you’re planning to apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance.
Contact disability or wellbeing services at the university or college early. Don’t wait until results day: as soon as your young person has a firm choice, get in touch. The team may arrange a call to chat everything through – this will reassure your young person, but you can ask questions too. They may offer specific accommodation that works for the student’s needs – for example, a quiet living flat or one with suitable access.
Visit with access in mind. At open days, talk to the disability or wellbeing team. Ask about accommodation, what support is available socially as well as academically, and whether there are student groups for students with similar needs.
Check for extra support. The university or college may be able to offer support above and beyond Disabled Students’ Allowance – ask what might be available. For more on post-18 options, see Sense's guide to post-16 SEND – choose your area from the top menu.
Think through transferring medical support. If your young person currently sees a specialist or other medical support team, think through how they’ll get in touch with the local medical team and get to the hospital if needed. The disability team can advise you.

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Moving out, moving in, moving on

As the day they leave approaches, both of you may be feeling excited and apprehensive. It can be good to focus on practical things to do:

Check first day arrangements.
Your young person may be able to move in a day early, or attend special transition sessions. Talk about how long they’d like you to hang around.
Agree how often you’ll check in, and what happens if you don’t hear from them.
It’ll be easier for both of you if you have the same expectations. Talk to the disability or wellbeing team about how they’ll contact you if they have any concerns.
Make sure they know where to turn.
The disability or wellbeing team may offer an appointment to meet your young person in the first few weeks. As well as this, make sure they know who to contact with questions or concerns, and how to register with a GP.
Try not to pass on your anxieties.
Most young people with SEND can adapt well and thrive with the right support – and many universities and colleges are glad to support them.

Don't miss out on Disabled

Students' Allowance (DSA)

DSA is a grant covering specialist equipment, mentoring and extra travel costs. It’s not usually paid as money – it’s paid directly to the services or for the equipment, or paid back to you when you send receipts.

Your university may employ support staff funded by the DSA. It's separate from other student finance, won't affect benefits or loans, and you don’t need to pay it back.

Applications can take several weeks, so apply as soon as your young person has made a firm choice.

You may need to get written evidence from a GP, specialist, a specialist assessor or other professionals who know your young person. Your SENCO may be able to help with this.