Wokingham

Wokingham Learning Disability Partnership Board is hosting a transition event ‘What Next:14+’ next month (May 23) in a bid to inform young people with disabilities and their families and carers about the choices that are available to them when they leave school.

The transition from school or college is a critical time for young people with disabilities and their families. It marks the move from school to adult life and from children’s to adults’ services. There are many options that are available to them as they leave school and venture into adult life and it is hoped that this event, being held at the Salvation Army Hall, Chalfont Close, Lower Earley, Reading RG6 5HZ, will offer them useful advice and information.

Two identical Wokingham sessions will take place – one between 4pm and 6pm and the alternative between 6pm and 8pm - and they are open to young people aged between 14 and 25 years old and their families and carers. To make the transition easier, a number of information stands will be on view and advice will be available on social care, day services, leisure, housing and benefits. Partner agencies such as Connexions, Mencap, local colleges and housing providers will also be on hand to offer advice, and keynote speakers will be giving short talks. Refreshments will be available.

Jane Andrews, transition worker at Wokingham District Council, said: “Young people thinking about the future and making plans can find it daunting, but for those with a disability and their families the transition from child to adult services can seem particularly confusing.

“Ensuring that the transition process and the changes in the provision of services run smoothly is important for all those concerned. Starting adult life is a time of opportunity for young people and should be a positive experience as they take steps towards adulthood. I hope that by attending this event, many young people with disabilities as well as their family and carers, will learn more about what services are available to them and guide them to where they can find more information.”

Other organisations who provide services to people with disabilities are more than welcome to have an information stand at this event and anyone interested should contact Jane Andrews on (0118) 974 6800.

Wokingham District Council