Pathway planning

 

Another in the endless stream of plans and forms and documents that will come your way as you move into leaving care. But, this is important and could prove very useful to you.

 

You and your social worker will create your Pathway Plan. It sets out the support you need as you begin to live independently as well as the help you will receive for your education or training. This could cover the cost of books, equipment or travel. Knowing this information could make the difference between struggling to cope and getting the support that's rightfully yours.

What you want to do once you leave school will affect what goes into your Pathway Plan. From 2013 everyone aged 16 will have to take part in some kind of education or training. That could mean you stay on at school, take an apprenticeship, become a trainee or go to college.

These can seem like massive decisions, so to help you are entitiled to a Personal Adviser. They will help you plan the next step.

However, it is really important to remember that this isn't all that big a deal. This isn't about setting your future in stone. This is about listening to what you want to do and offering as much help, advice and financial support as possible so you can achieve those ambitions. If after six months,you change your mind or realise that whatever you've chosen isn't for you, no problem! The Pathway Plan is like a jacket from Primark - easily changed.

What's more, your local authority has to provide you with help until you're 21 (24 if you're still in educaiton or training) so make the most of the help that's out there. If there's a way of getting extra support, these people will know about it.

 

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