Plans are being made to help young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) become more independent.

St Helens Borough Council is focusing on building 'independence and confidence' through training and support.

This is part of a wider initiative to prepare young individuals for a successful future.

Travel training is a key element of this support.

Solid foundation

The council aims to assist families in establishing a solid foundation for young people as they transition into adulthood.

This will be incorporated into the council's consultation with families regarding future school transport provisions.

The aim is to equip young people with essential life skills, such as using public transport, through the guidance of a trainer.

Other initiatives to boost confidence and independence include centralised pick-up points for specialist transport and the introduction of personalised budgets for some families.

This will provide families with greater control over their child's transport options.

'To give the whole family confidence'

Councillor Nova Charlton, cabinet member for children’s services, said: "Building independence is an essential part of childhood and the transition into adult life.

"For some families with young people who have SEND, we want to focus on giving them the right support to give the whole family the confidence that will help their child gain greater independence and open up their world to positive opportunities in the future.

"For many families, a greater level of independence will provide just that, instead focusing on what someone is capable of achieving rather than what they cannot."

There is also a proposal to ask for a financial contribution for travel, in line with a standard term-time travel pass, for those receiving 16-18 education who meet certain criteria.

The consultation will run from September 30 to November 11, with a series of face-to-face sessions planned.

These include meetings at Lansbury Bridge School on October 7, Mill Green School on October 9, and St Helens Town Hall on October 15.

An online questionnaire will also be available.

Families will be contacted directly to participate in the consultation.

Cllr Charlton encourages parents to engage with the consultation and share their experiences to help shape the service.