After all these years of working alongside local authorities (LAs), I’ve found myself slipping into their jargon. I no longer say “what’s best for Jude,” but instead, I find myself saying “what meets his needs.” And honestly, I hate it. I really do.
But, after 19 years of navigating this system, it’s hard not to pick up on their language and habits.
So, what does “meeting the needs” really mean?
It’s about providing a service that suits the individual at that specific time – one that offers progressive, yet familiar, support. As an example, if a young person struggles with noise, meeting their needs means a quieter setting.
For Jude, now 19, it means that, despite his age, he’s still not ready to leave the comfort of his school.
He thrives in the routine of moving from school to his school house and back again.
He’s been at the same school for over seven years now, and if it were up to me, he’d stay for another seven without hesitation. Sadly, the school can’t accommodate students past 19, so it’s time for a change.
And unfortunately, Hertfordshire CC doesn’t offer any further education options for him. There isn’t a single Local Authority-led residential college for young adults in the whole of this rich, prosperous county. While I suspect this is a nationwide issue, it still seems utterly ridiculous that we don’t offer this service to the most vulnerable young people in society.
Right now, there’s a potential supported living adult-service provision nearby that might be able to meet his needs. But, it’s strictly supported living.
Considering we’ve been working on Jude’s transition since May 2024, in an attempt to get “ahead of the game,” I can’t help but feel deflated by the lack of options available.
I don’t mean just for us and Jude. But for any family struggling with time constraints or navigating the system. Or anyone who’s mind explodes at the overwhelming maze of terminology and hoops we’re expected to jump through just to find something that even remotely meets a young person’s needs in this county.
But don’t worry—there’s another option.
It’s not quick, and it’s certainly not simple (shocking, I know).
Out-of-county provision.
And yes, this is the rodeo we’re braving once again!
If you find yourself in a situation where the local authority insists there’s nothing they can do, here’s something you need to know:
Local authorities are legally obligated to consider placements from outside their county. This doesn’t mean they’ll automatically agree to it—but if you find a suitable and realistic out-of-county placement, and the LA says no, you’ll at least have a solid argument if you end up in court. The LA will need to explain why they’re rejecting the placement and suggest an alternative.
At the end of the day, they have to ensure that young people are appropriately and safely supported. And if this can’t be done in-county, they have to look elsewhere.
A quick tip: Make sure your young person’s EHCP (Education, Health, and Care Plan) is fully up to date and avoids vague terms like “could have” or “may need.” These phrases are meaningless. Ensure the plan clearly outlines exactly what they need—and not a thing less.
I’ll keep you updated on how things go as we pursue an out-of-county placement for Jude.
PS Deputyship article coming next. This one is an INSANE process but you MUST do it asap – if your young person is nearing 18, take note x
