Dudley Council has brought together young people, families, carers and professionals from education, health and social care to help shape the borough's future support for those preparing for adulthood.
The Preparing for Adulthood partnership workshop was held at The Cable Plaza in Brierley Hill. It built on work already underway through Dudley's Preparing for Adulthood Partnership Board, which was established to develop the council's approach with input from stakeholders.
Progress to date
The council has already developed a strategic position and appointed an associate director for preparing for adulthood. A summer programme of workshops and surveys has gathered the views of children, young people and families.
Councillor Wayne Little, cabinet member for Children and Young People, said: "Events like this show what can be achieved when the council, our partners and local families work together. Preparing young people for adulthood is a shared responsibility, and it is vital that as young people move from being children towards adulthood, that transition is as smooth and well supported as possible."
Ten priorities identified
Participants used table-top exercises to agree priorities for the next four years and shape a shared vision for Preparing for Adulthood in Dudley. Discussions reflected consistent themes from earlier engagement with children and families, including having a say in planning for the future, building skills and opportunities for independence, and access to friendships, good health and a place in the community.
Ten priorities emerged from the day's discussions: embedding Preparing for Adulthood planning earlier, improving information and communication for families, strengthening young people's voice and co-production, and expanding employment and career pathways for young people with additional needs.
What happens next
The council will combine feedback from the workshop, identify common themes, and work with partners to co-produce a new Preparing for Adulthood strategy for Dudley alongside an improvement plan informed by what young people and families have said.