Leaving home
As you approach adulthood, you may start to think about leaving home to live independently. This does not mean that you must live on your own.
For the different housing options available see the accommodation section in this guide. To live independently, you and those working with you should consider the skills you will need to learn to live independently.
As you approach adulthood, you may start to think about leaving home to live independently. This does not mean that you must live on your own. For the different housing options available see the accommodation section in this guide. To live independently, you and those working with you should consider the skills you will need to learn to live independently.
How does it work?
You can develop these skills in several ways. Special schools and colleges offer independent living skills courses, and these can be included in your EHCP as outcomes. There are also other agencies that can support you to learn these skills.
When will this happen?
When considering independent living it is important to start having conversations about it early, usually from age 14. This allows time to explore the options available to you. Also, to identify the skills and learning you will need to be able to live independently.
The role of parents and carers
Families can help you learn the skills that you need to be able to live independently from a young age. These can be things like cleaning, planning and cooking meals and washing clothes.
It is important that parents and carers are included in the conversations as they are often most familiar with your aspirations, skills and abilities.