Young people with special educational needs or disabilities are being offered support with finding a first job and advice on becoming more independent.
Teenagers over the age of 14 and their parents and carers are invited to an event, First Steps to Adulthood, which is open evening in Chichester on 29 January.
The event, organised by West Sussex County Council and the West Sussex Parent Carer Forum (WSPCF), aims to provide young people with advice and guidance in readiness for leaving full-time education.
Helen Merrick, at WSPCF, said: “Talking to parent carers and their families it became apparent that families and young people want information on the options available to them when moving on from school and college.”
Following last year’s events in Horsham and Worthing, more than 30 organisations will be represented this year at the largest event to date.
Richard Burrett, county council cabinet member for education and skills, said: “We hope that the event will give young people ideas and information about the different opportunities available to them after they leave school and help them to think about the routes they may follow into the world of work and towards independence.
“This is a chance to have your questions answered on the big lifestyle choices such as employment and housing. Whether you want to find out about future jobs or get to know the housing market a bit better – this is a must-see event for you.”
Young people will have the chance to access information and guidance on a range of topics including: employment; benefits; housing, leisure activities and disability organisations.
The drop-in will take place from 6pm to 8pm at Chichester College’s Conference Hall in Westgate Fields, P019 1SB.
