Extra Support for Care Leavers with SEND
If you are a care leaver with Special Educational Needs and/or a Disability (SEND), you may be able to get extra help as you prepare for adult life. This could include support with where you live and with benefits.
The more chances you have to make your own decisions, the more confident you can become. Making choices helps you learn, understand risks and grow from your experiences – and that is okay.
We will help make sure you are connected with the right people, so you get the support and benefit payments you are entitled to.
If you are over 18 and get support from Adult Social Care, we will work closely with you and your social worker to make sure you are getting the help you need.
Your worker will help you apply for any financial support you may be entitled to. They can also help you use your money in ways that support your goals, or save for things you may need in the future.
You can find more information on the SEND Local Offer for young people on the Somerset Council website.
You can also get advice about benefits, including Disability Living Allowance and Personal Independence Payment, on the government website.
If you are under 25 and think you may need extra support because of special educational needs or a disability, but you do not have an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan, you can ask for an EHC assessment.
To do this, contact Somerset Council Customer Services on 0300 123 2224.