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Independent living
Independent living looks different for every young person. Some will need support in their daily tasks. Others won't need support to live independently. It will depend on their needs and abilities.
They may need adaptations or equipment to help them with their everyday activities. This can also help them to build confidence in doing things for themselves.
Your young person will need to consider the support and housing options available. Local adult services can help support your young person. This includes local adult services like occupational therapy and social care.
Preparing for adulthood
Your young person with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND) will become an adult. They will move from children's services to adult services.
It is important to prepare yourself and your young person for this big change. This this can be exciting, upsetting and stressful.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
If your young person is on the Disability Living Allowance (DLA), at 16 years old they will need to apply for PIP. These payments are not affected by working or savings.
Your child will get a letter inviting them to apply for PIP. The letter will be sent:
- shortly after their 16th birthday
- when they leave hospital, if they were in hospital on their 16th birthday
- about 20 weeks before their DLA award ends, if they were awarded DLA under special rules for people who might have 12 months or less to live
The DLA payments will stop unless they apply for PIP by the given date in the letter.
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) will end when your young person is 16 years old. Your young person will need to apply for PIP when they turn 16.
If they apply by the date given in the letter, they’ll continue to receive DLA until their claim is assessed.
Personal health budget (PHB)
A personal health budget is a personalised care and support plan using NHS funding. It will give your young person more choice, control and flexibility over their healthcare.
It is not using new or extra funding. It is a different way to spend the health funding to meet the needs of your young person.
Blue Badge scheme
Blue Badge Rights and Responsibilities Booklet - BSL - Department for Transport YouTube
The Blue Badge scheme allows people with disabilities to use more accessible parking options. This includes disabled parking spaces.
When applying for a Blue Badge, you will need to provide documents as supporting evidence.
Accessible shopping
A number of major companies are working to make their shops more accessible. If they have an accessibility initiative, they will have a information about it on their website. Please note, you may need to use a search engine, not the websites search function.
Most major supermarkets have support to make their shops more accessible including 'quiet hours' and sensory kits.
Last reviewed: 16 July, 2025
