URL: https://cmttpublic.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=2029

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose:

Content: Cabinet considered the report of the Executive Director of Children and Families which sought approval of the Preparation for Adulthood Strategy 2026– 2030, which sets out how Cheshire West and Chester Council will support young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) as they transition into adulthood, one of the most important steps in their life.   Cabinet members were informed that the Strategy built on the previous 2020–24 Strategy and responded to new challenges including the impact of Covid-19 and rising demand for support.  It was also noted that co-production was central to its development, shaped directly by young people along with parent carers, professionals and voluntary organisations all sharing their experiences and identifying priorities. It set out a strong vision and roadmap shaped by lived experience.   Members further noted that the Strategy would be owned and co-ordinated by the Preparation for Adulthood (PfA) Delivery Group, a multi-agency group including Health, Education and Local Authority partners which had been established as part of the SEND governance structure.  An action plan would follow which would be the delivery vehicle of the Strategy and how success would be measured.   Councillor Adam Langan, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, led the discussion on the item and the item was seconded by Councillor Sheila Little, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care.   Visiting Members:  Councillor Charles Hardy spoke on behalf of Councillor Mark Stocks in relation to the item.   Cabinet Members welcomed the report and the Strategy and felt that Year 9 was the latest age to start this planning approach and discussions in relation to preparation for transitioning into adulthood.  Members also felt that collaborative working across both Childrens and Adults Services would be vital to the success of the Strategy and its developing action plan.   DECIDED:    That   the Preparation for Adulthood Strategy 2026–2030 (attached at Appendix 1 to the report) be approved.   Reason for Decision   1)            The last Preparation for Adulthood Strategy ran from 2020-2024. Every local authority has a statutory duty under the Children’s and Families Act 2014 to help young people move into adulthood. The Care Act 2014 places a duty on a local authority to promote individual wellbeing and prevent care needs from escalating. 2)            The SEND Code of Practice emphases the importance of joint commissioning arrangements these include and early transition planning to support young people with SEND in their adult lives. Commissioning can include support services and health services that are paid for by the Local Authority. 3)            The strategy is evidence-based having been informed by a full co-production plan and shaped by engagement with young people and partner organisations including Health, Education, parents and carers and community and voluntary sector. It sets out a clear vision and priorities to improve outcomes for young people as they transition into adulthood.   Alternative Options   1)            While there are alternative approaches to supporting young people with SEND sector such as relying solely on existing community sector support and specialist education providers, this strategy recognises that these options would not fully meet the Council’s ambitions for prevention, equity, and long-term aspirations for young people with SEND. 2)            This strategy, with a partnership centred framework, and commitment to growth and sustainability, is designed to deliver the strategic vision ensuring aspirations, opportunity, and lasting change for all young residents. 3)            An option is to not approve this strategy but for the reasons set out above this option is not recommended.

Date of Decision: January 14, 2026