So today was an historic moment. After nearly 16 months of back and forth, total confusion, absolutely zero guidance and support, an adult services place was agreed for Jude. While it isn’t exactly where I wanted him to be, I’m happy with the outcome.
I can’t express how stressful this last week has been.
He needs to be out of his current house on MONDAY. It’s Friday. Honestly, WTH Herts CC?!
I wanted to write a list of tips for anyone with a young person aged 16+ who may be facing this sh*t show in the next couple of years. Frankly, it’s mind blowing so be prepared.
Have a full time job?! Well, you now have two.
A Few Tips…
Off the top of my very much befuddled head:
- Do NOT let anyone in the Local Authority bully you into thinking that what you want for your young person is unreasonable. If you are simply asking for them to be moved to the area they grew up in. Or you want a particular type of house because it’s familiar/convenient for them, this is not unreasonable. They will push for the cheaper, easier to navigate move. But if that doesn’t feel like the right option, do not back down.
- Demand weekly meetings. Working with the local authority can feel like you’ve entered the twilight zone. There are people with bizarre job titles. You will be dropped and picked up by various case workers and social workers on a regular – often unexpected – basis. You will be expected to understand their bizarre list of acronyms. Meetings are your ally. They provide clarity and give you a chance to ask questions and remind them of your expectations.
- Prepare your list of questions. Go in ready and armed. Ask the questions without feeling like you sound silly. There is so much ridiculous terminology thrown around by the LA – and I would argue it’s part of their aim to confuse people. So ask what they’re talking about, and exactly what that means for your young person.
- Set deadlines and agree next steps. Meetings are all well and good but unless you demand certain things by the next meeting, you won’t make any progress at all. Months would go by and we’d hear nothing. Give them tasks for the next meeting, even if it’s simple things like researching activities. Or finding out what transport options would be like in a particular setting.
- College or supported living. There are options for young people to continue education. If you feel this would benefit your young person, don’t be afraid to investigate, and request it. Ask your social worker to support and give advice but do your own research. Remember they will have the brokerage team (finance department), and Directors pulling the purse strings tight. Their aims are not the same as yours.
- Wanting to consider college? Take a look at what’s on offer via sites such as Natspec which offers a great list of special needs colleges. They are all over the country and sticking within your region isn’t a necessity if it meets need. Your local authority CAN fund an out of county placement so don’t let them believe it isn’t possible. Remember, they have to be seen to do what’s in the best interest of your young person. If this is college, then fab.
- Supported living? It may seem stupid but when our social worker kept talking about care homes, I thought he meant those you see grannies move into. But apparently that isn’t the case. Be mindful that supported living CAN include privately rented accommodation via your chosen service provider. Service provider = support worker company. If you want your young person near you, back in their home town, request this. Service providers work all over the place and your social worker can advise for those who operate near you.
I can’t think of anything else useful right now as my mind is still spinning. I will write a post about transition processes for once you have an adult service in place. Perhaps also a post about finding activities that are relevant for your young person.
I’m also going to invite any relevant professional to take a page on this blog for their tips and advice. The more information you are armed with the better.
Let me know if there’s a particular topic you’d like me to cover and I’ll do my best.
Love you all x
