“It’s not just a change – it’s everything”: Shout Out for SEND Reps talk about transitions
Transitions can be exciting—but for young people with SEND, they can also feel overwhelming, confusing, and sometimes even isolating. Whether it’s moving from school to college, or from children’s to adult healthcare and social services, these changes are more than just logistical—they’re deeply personal.
In May 2025, our Reps spoke with guests about what helps, what doesn’t, and what professionals need to understand. Here’s what they had to say.
Why not view our top tips flyers for professionals when thinking about transitions?
What Helps Us Feel Safe and Ready
“Tell me what’s staying the same.”
Change is hard—but knowing what isn’t changing can make it easier. Having a familiar adult, a “safe person,” who stays involved during the transition can make all the difference.
“Show me where the toilets are. Give me a lanyard.”
It’s the little things that matter. A map, a timetable, photos of staff, or even a video tour can help reduce anxiety. Being shown safe spaces like breakout rooms helps us feel grounded.
“Let me visit before I start.”
Taster days, visits, and even having college staff come to our current setting can help us feel less scared. Meeting current students helps too—it shows us we’re not alone.
“Give me something to do over summer.”
Long breaks, like the six-week summer holiday, can be really stressful. Optional transition projects or summer courses help keep our momentum going and reduce anxiety.
Support That Makes a Difference
“I need someone I can talk to.”
Having a named adult or mentor is vital. We need someone who listens, understands, and doesn’t rush us.
“Please assess my mental health before I start.”
Knowing that someone has checked in on our wellbeing—and that support is ready if we need it—helps us feel seen and safe.
“Tell me where to go if I need help after hours.”
Support doesn’t stop at 5pm. We need to know where to turn if we’re struggling in the evening or on weekends.
What Professionals Need to Know
“Read my file. Don’t make me repeat my story again and again.”
Transitions between professionals can be exhausting. Proper handovers matter. We shouldn’t have to relive trauma just because someone didn’t read our notes.
“Don’t treat me like I’m stupid.”
We want to be respected. That means listening to us, not being patronising, and recognising our strengths.
“Make your approach person-centred—every day.”
We’re all different. What works for one person might not work for another. Ask us what we need. Listen to our voice.
The Gap Between Children’s and Adult Services
“In children’s services, support is normal. In adult services, it’s like you’re on your own.”
The shift can be jarring. Adult services often feel less understanding, less flexible, and more confusing.
“I didn’t know what I had to do. My mum always did it.”
From booking appointments to managing prescriptions, we need help learning how to take over. Clear, step-by-step guidance is essential.
“I didn’t want to go to A&E and say I have SEND—they treat you like a child.”
We need professionals who explain things clearly, without being patronising. And we need safe spaces in adult settings, just like we had in children’s services.
What We Want from Adult Social Care
- Independence—but with support
- Trust and honesty
- A positive environment
- Help understanding our options
- Support to speak out and be heard
Final Thoughts: What Makes a Difference
“They made me feel normal.”
That’s what good support looks like. It’s not about fixing us—it’s about accepting us, empowering us, and walking alongside us.
“Respect our identity. Take us seriously.”
We’re not just transitioning into adulthood—we’re becoming who we are. Help us do that with dignity, clarity, and care.
Attendees
The attendees at this session were:
- 9 Shout Out for SEND Reps
- Anna Shairp, Head of Service Learning Disability and Short Breaks
- Jen Ogley, Adviser & Children and Young People’s lead worker, SENDIAS
- Sam, Lucyand Krissie from the Youth Voice Bucks team
Thanks from Anna:
I wanted to thank you for letting me join your group last Monday. I really appreciated your input into the new Adult Learning Disability Social Care Team that I am setting up. I listened to what was said about autistic people and wanted to reassure you that we are currently exploring how we plan to offer support to those who need. This could be from a Social Work Team or could be through our prevention offer and signposting to people or organisations that might be able to help. Once a decision is made then I can let you know.
I am looking forward to getting the notes from Sam (he has a lot to type up!) and using the information. I will keep you updated when there is news about the new Team and if you think it is a good idea then you might want to invite me back to talk about it.
Thank you all for making me feel so welcome for giving me your ideas. I really appreciate it.
Reflections from Jen:
Thank you for having me at the SOfS meeting, it was great to get your thoughts on transitions to adult health services
I came to hear what you had to say about this transition, and from your thoughts, what is clear to me is that a young person gaining independence, taking charge of their own health needs and knowing what the system is, is much more needed, than information specifically about the transition from Children’s to Adult health services.
For more information
If you would like more information about this session or the Shout Out for SEND, please email ShoutOutforSEND@Buckinghamshire.gov.uk.