SEND Governance Structure

Operational Group 4: Pathways to Adulthood

Purpose

To lead the development of effective and sustainable pathways into adulthood for young people aged 16–25 with SEND, ensuring improved local options and outcomes. The group oversees the delivery of SEND Strategy Priority 4 and contributes to the local authority’s Safety Valve Agreement by reducing reliance on costly out-of-borough specialist placements – particularly for young people with complex needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder/Condition (ASD/ASC) – and supporting efforts to balance the High Needs Block by 2027.

Update

This group is focused on improving post-16 pathways for young people with SEND, with a particular emphasis on increasing local opportunities that support independence, employment, and meaningful progression into adulthood. The work aligns with the SEND Strategy Priority 4 and supports the Safety Valve Agreement by reducing reliance on costly out-of-borough placements.

Key areas of delivery include expanding the number of supported internships across the Council and with local partners, with formal placements now being developed and a post-16 review panel established to identify suitable candidates. The group is also trialling new models of provision for young adults with SEND, including a recently launched offer through Southwark Resource Centre, with further mapping and planning underway. In addition, efforts are being made to improve transition planning from Year 9 onwards, including training for SENDCOs and school leaders, and enhancing the quality and accessibility of information for families. Work is also progressing to strengthen the borough’s approach to employment and employability support for young people with SEND.

Due to the nature of the many projects being delivered under the Pathway for Adulthood strategic priority, this group was further subdivided into five subgroups focusing on different elements of this priority.