Getting Advice: Young People Zone 13+ years
This area has currently been written by adults on behalf of young people whilst we co-produce this with young people.
Our Neurodivergent Experience: See into my world
An exhibition arising from a groundbreaking initiative, the ‘Our Neurodivergent Experience project’ took place between 21st – 23rd June 2024. The project emerged from a collaborative effort of people working in Devon, aiming to challenge negative beliefs about neurodiversity and tackle the pervasive stigma and isolation among neurodivergent young people.
Please visit the site to learn more about the project and see the art that was exhibited.
Arts & Culture Exeter | Our Neurodivergent Experience: See into my world
SEND information in each Local Area
Information, advice and support about special educational needs is available for children, young people and parent carers, in Devon, Torbay and Plymouth. You don’t need to have a diagnosis to get support.
Please click on the links below to take you to information in the area that you live.
Devon: range of resources available in Devon:
Home – Devon Information Advice and Support
Torbay: range of resources available in Torbay:
Plymouth: range of resources available in Plymouth:
Young People Support – Plymouth Information Advice and Support for SEND. (plymouthias.org.uk)
Education, Health and Care Plans (ECHPs)
An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is a legal document designed to support children and young people up to the age of 25 who have special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) that cannot be met by the support that is already ordinarily available in their education setting.
The EHCP outlines the specific educational, health, and social care needs of the child or young person, and details the additional, specialist, support required to meet those needs. An EHCP is only produced after an Education, Health and Care needs assessment.
The EHCP describes the support a child or young person needs to achieve their desired outcomes and sets out the provision to be put in place to best meet those needs.
Please visit the websites below providing information, advice and guidance in your local area.
Devon: Devon County Council have produced a page containing information on the Devon offer.
https://www.devon.gov.uk/education-and-families/send-local-offer/education-health-and-care-plans/
Torbay: Torbay Family Hubs have produced a page dedicated to the Torbay offer, supportive links and a helpful video.
https://torbayfamilyhub.org.uk/topic/6241/
Plymouth: Plymouth Online Directory contains information on the Plymouth offer with further links to external websites and additional support information.
https://www.plymouthonlinedirectory.com/plymouthlocaloffer/ehcp
Managing daily living
In this section, there is some helpful information on managing daily living.
Managing daily activities as a neurodivergent teenager can be challenging, but there are strategies and tools that can help make it easier. Here are some tips:
Create a Routine: Establishing a consistent daily schedule can provide structure and predictability. Use visual schedules or planners to outline your day, including school, chores, and leisure activities.
Break Tasks into Steps: Large tasks can be overwhelming. Break them down into smaller, manageable steps. For example, instead of “clean your room,” list specific actions like “pick up clothes,” “make the bed,” and “vacuum the floor”.
Use Reminders and Timers: Set reminders on your phone or use timers to help you stay on track with tasks. Apps like Time Timer or visual timers can be particularly helpful.
Create a Sensory-Friendly Environment: Adjust your surroundings to minimise sensory overload. This might include using noise-cancelling headphones, adjusting lighting, or creating a quiet space for relaxation.
Develop Coping Strategies: Learn and practice coping strategies for managing stress and anxiety. Techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, and physical activity can be beneficial.
Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from family, friends, or professionals. Occupational therapists, for example, can provide tailored strategies to help you manage daily activities.
Use Neurodivergent-Friendly Tools: There are many tools designed specifically for neurodivergent individuals, such as fidget toys, weighted blankets, and apps for executive functioning.
Remember, it’s important to find what works best for you and to be patient with yourself as you develop these skills. If you need more specific advice or resources, reaching out to a professional who specialises in neurodiversity can be very helpful.
Some additional tips can be found on this website.
A Comprehensive Guide to Teaching Life Skills to Neurodivergent Teens – Learning For A Purpose
Some useful information can be found on the Parent Carer Cornwall website – please click this link Parent Carers Cornwall and go to the My Independent Life sections.
Health advice
Childline have developed some useful information to help you deal with the changes your body goes through as you grow up. It can be a difficult time getting used to everything. Read our advice below for help and support dealing with changes and looking after your body.
Devon County Council have provided a health advice page for young people with SEND.
Health – Education and Families
Devon County Council have developed some information about the health support available in Devon for children who need a bit more help, including children and young people with SEND.
Targeted health services – Education and Families
Eatwell Guide shows how much of what we eat overall should come from each food group to achieve a healthy, balanced diet.
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/food-guidelines-and-food-labels/the-eatwell-guide/
Health for Teens: Website specifically designed for young people to support all aspects of healthcare.
Health Passport is a resource for anyone with a disability who might need hospital treatment. The passport is designed to help young people to communicate their needs to doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals.
https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/physical-health/my-health-passport
Maintaining relationships and mental wellbeing information has been produced by Better Health.
Maintaining healthy relationships and mental wellbeing – NHS
Gender identification
Youth Access is a national membership body that represents and champions organisations delivering support for young people. They have produced a document “Addressing inequity in service provision for Trans and gender diverse young people” February 2024.
Equity Report Trans and Gender Diverse Young People
Barnardo’s provide support primarily online, and is a mixture of one-to-one, group work, and therapeutic support.
Positive Identities – Gender Space | Barnardo’s
The Children’s Society tell a story by Cassie and provide tips.
Transgender visibility & misconceptions | The Children’s Society
Young Minds have developed a guide to support gender identity.
Gender Identity & Mental Health | Guide For Parents | YoungMinds
Childline have a website that provides advice and support to help you feel less alone.
Preparing for Adulthood
Preparing for Adulthood – All Tools & Resources: these have been developed by the National Development Team for Inclusion and give guides and resources to help preparing for adulthood.
https://www.ndti.org.uk/programme/preparing-for-adulthood/
You and your body: Your feelings about how you look and the changes you go through can have a big impact on your life. Childline have some helpful information.
Feeling unhappy with how you look: Bodies grow at different rates during puberty, but it can be tough if you’re comparing yourself to other people. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way for people to look, and lots of pictures online will be airbrushed or have filters to stop them from looking real.
https://www.childline.org.uk/info-advice/you-your-body/my-body/how-you-look
Growing body, facial, and pubic hair: When you go through puberty, you’ll usually start to grow hair under your arms, around your genitals, and on your arms and legs. If you’re physically male, you may also grow hair on your chest and face. It’s your choice whether you decide to shave your facial or body hair. If you decide you want to then we’ve got advice to help.
https://www.childline.org.uk/info-advice/you-your-body/puberty/puberty-facts/#8
Some useful information can be found on the Parent Carer Cornwall website – please click this link Parent Carers Cornwall and go to the My Independent Life section and then Puberty section.
Helpful videos
What are the stages of Puberty? Boy Puberty
Top signs you have hit Puberty (Video for GIRLS only)
Looking for a job
Here are some websites of organisations providing information.
Devon
Devon County Council have a website for young people (under 19) providing information on how develop new skills, wanting to find out about training courses, or searching for a job.
Jobs and careers advice for young adults in Devon
Youth Hub Devon: This service supports young people aged 16-24 with CV writing, interview preparation, job and apprenticeship searches, and other application support.
Employment hubs – Economy, enterprise and skills
Apprenticeships: These programs offer practical work experience and training while earning a qualification. Apprenticeships allow you to earn money while you learn, and T Levels provide industry experience alongside classroom learning.
Apprenticeships – Economy, enterprise and skills
Youth Work in Devon: This initiative brings together various stakeholders to enhance youth work and provide better outcomes for young people.
Torbay
Torbay Youth Service: This service offers targeted youth work support, including one-on-one assistance and group activities. They focus on personal development, building resilience, and helping young people make informed choices.
Youth Service – Torbay Council
Imagine This Partnership: This initiative provides opportunities for young people to receive nationally recognised youth work training. This can help them gain qualifications and experience in youth work, which can be a valuable career path.
Family Hubs: Torbay’s Family Hubs offer various services, including employment support for young people. They provide a safe space for young people to explore their identity and build trust with youth workers. If you need more specific information or assistance, you can contact the Torbay Youth Service directly at youthservice@torbay.gov.uk or call 01803 208100.
Youth Service – Torbay Council
Are you, or do you know/work with folks that are 16-24 years old, living in Torbay, and not in Education Employment or Training? Sound Communities is a FREE 6-8 week programme will boost your skills, and support you to take the next steps towards getting ready for employment.
Plymouth
Skills Launchpad Plymouth: This is a virtual one-stop-shop for skills and employment support. They offer free careers advice, information on job opportunities, and resources to help you decide your next steps. They have specific support for both adults (25+ years) and youth (16-24 years) including those with additional needs.
Home | Skills Launchpad Plymouth
Plymouth Job Centre: The Job Centre can assist with all aspects of finding a job, including explaining benefits you might be able to claim. They offer free careers advice and resources to help you decide what to do next. You can also call the Job Centre on 0800 169 0190.
On Course South West is an organisation helps young people aged 16-19 with CV support, impartial advice, and pointing them in the right direction for job, training, or education opportunities.
Outside your local area
Disability Employment Advisors at your local job centre may be aware of various training, study and /or employment schemes that might be of interest to him, such as the PLUSS employment scheme which provided individually tailored support to help individuals to find work and to help them remain in their employment position.
United Response also offer employment advice and support for people living in Devon and Cornwall. They can be contacted to carry out an assessment of how best they may be able to support on 01872 250150. More information can be found on their website.
Sport 4 Life UK gives young people the life skills needed to move into education, training and employment through sports‑themed personal development services. Get active, build confidence and get the qualifications you need to get a job and earn money.
https://sport4life.org.uk/young-people/
Apply for communication support at a job interview (GOV.UK)
Mental health
Here are some websites of organisations providing information, advice and 1-2-1 support.
Help in a crisis
If you are under 18 and experiencing a mental health crisis, you can now access Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) 24/7.
We accept self-referrals from children, young people, parents and carers. Pre-referral telephone support is available for GP’s.
Please contact NHS 111 and select the mental health option.
In the event of a medical emergency please call 999.
More information can be found in the ‘urgent help’ section.
Useful websites
Children and Family Health Devon (CAMHS): NHS service for mental health for children and young people under 18 in Devon (excluding Plymouth). Website contains useful advice and links, including how to self-refer and telephone number to use in a crisis.
Mental health – Children and Family Health Devon
Livewell Southwest: NHS services covering the Plymouth area and providing information and resources.
CAMHS Neurodiversity: Mental health | Livewell Southwest
Young Devon: Advice and support for teens and young adults, including health and wellbeing, skills and accommodation.
Young Devon | Changing the odds in favour of young people
NHS Every Mind Matters: offers a range of mental health advice with an interactive quiz that’s designed to help you feel more in control of your emotional mental wellbeing.
NHS Inform provide information on identifying, treating and managing mental health problems and disorders.
Young Minds National charity with extensive symptoms-based information for young people and the parents of children and young people, tips on self-care and further resources available.
YoungMinds | Mental Health Charity For Children And Young People | YoungMinds
Kooth
A free, online, anonymous and award winning counselling and advice service for teenagers and young adults.
THE MIX
Free, confidential support for young people under 25 via online, social and mobile, in areas covering mental health, drink and drugs, money, sex & relationships and more.
The Mix – Essential support for under 25s
Self-Esteem Journal has been developed Therapist Aid and helps to journal difficult generating ideas into positive experiences.
CAMHS Resources
Site was created for young people, carers and professionals to pool together lots of helpful resources from across the internet that are available to help support your mental health and well-being.
Mental Health Support For Young People | Young Minds
Childline
National organisation available online or by phone for children and young people of all ages at any time of day or night. for worries about bullying, mental health, school and anything else. Freephone 08001111.
Stem4 is a charity that promotes positive mental health for teenagers and encourages them to build resilience and manage difficult emotions with online resources.
stem4 – supporting teenage mental health
Child Bereavement UK is a website for young people who are grieving as well as information on how to support a young person. A helpline is also available on 0800028840.
Apps
Apps can be a great way to help in the moment, as well as helping find longer term solutions. See if any of the below suit you.
Smiling Mind: a free mindfulness and meditation app, website and workbooks, with a focus on sleep and mental health. Dedicated programmes aimed at youths or adults.
Calm Harm is an app designed to help teenagers resist or manage the urge to self-harm. Private and password protected.
Happime is a free, CBT-based app designed to help raise self-esteem, self-confidence and happiness levels by teaching the power of thinking positively and how to choose a more helpful way of thinking. Separate (free) apps for children and young people.
Headspace: Well-known mindfulness, meditation and sleep app for all ages, ‘to improve health and happiness’. Free basics courses and articles on the website (age-appropriate options available; further resources require payment).
Mental Wellness App: Meditation & Sleep – Headspace
Travel/Transport
Being able to travel out and about is a big part of becoming an adult. A young person may be able to do this on their own, or they may need to have someone with them.
In Devon, Torbay and Plymouth, we have services and support to help young people travel around safely.
Public transport
There are a lot of people who are neurodivergent who really struggle with getting public transport independently. You may be eligible for free or reduced travel, such as bus passes or railcards. Details on support to help with the cost of transport in the UK can be found on the government website. This includes specific support for young people, disabled persons, or if you are currently not in employment.
Train/Rail cards
Young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) can benefit from various railcards that offer discounted travel. Here are a few options:
16-25 Railcard: This railcard is available for anyone aged 16-25 or full-time students over 26. It offers a 1/3 discount on most rail fares across Great Britain. The card costs £30 for one year or £70 for three years.
16-25 Railcard | National Rail
Disabled Persons Railcard: This railcard provides a 1/3 discount on rail fares for the cardholder and a companion. It costs £20 for one year or £54 for three years. This railcard is specifically designed for individuals with disabilities, including those with SEND.
Family & Friends Railcard: This railcard allows up to four adults and four children to travel together and save 1/3 on adult fares and 60% on child fares. It costs £30 for one year or £70 for three years.
Home to school transport
If you are in school or college you can speak to your tutor and ask for some travel help.
Devon: Devon County Council have a Guide: Transport for children with special educational needs with information on different types of transport and support available.
Transport for children with special educational needs Archives – Education and Families
School and college transport – Education and Families
Torbay: You can apply for transport assistance for your child by completing an application form. You will be required to apply each year for transport assistance. Before submitting your application for assistance please ensure that you have read our Home to School Transport Policy.
More information can be found on this page: Apply for home to school transport – Torbay Council
SEND Information, Advice and Support Torbay have put together information on school transport in Torbay Sendiass Torbay | Torbay
They can be contacted for any information or advice. Email: sendiass@torbay.gov.uk or phone: 01803 207884. Sendiass Torbay | Torbay
Plymouth: information on school transport can be found on this site School transport | PLYMOUTH.GOV.UK
Plymouth online directory have information on school transport if you have special needs or a medical condition.
School transport for children with special needs or a medical condition – Plymouth Online Directory
Driving tests
The Disability Driving Instructors website can help you find a specialist driving instructor in your area. These instructors are trained to provide the necessary support and adaptations to help you succeed in your driving test.
Disability Driving Instructors | Find a specialist driving instructor
If you need specific accommodations for your driving test, it’s a good idea to contact the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) in advance to discuss your needs and ensure they can provide the appropriate support.
Some autistic drivers may be allowed extra time for their test. You should speak to your driving instructor to find out what adjustments may be available.
National Autistic Society have more information can be found on driving guides for autistic adults in England.
https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/transport/driving/england
Special assistance at airports
Airports can offer a range of passenger assistance services for young people with a special educational need or disabilities.
Special assistance is available to passengers who may need help to travel for example, people with a physical disability, such as wheelchair users, and those who have difficulty with social interaction and communication, such as those with autism.
For more information, please visit the websites below:
Independent Travel Training
Devon: Independent Travel Training is a free scheme which has been set up by Devon County Council working with the Transport Co-ordination Service. The purpose of the scheme is to help young people throughout Devon learn how to develop the skills required for safe, independent travel. More information can be found on this website
Independent travel training – Education and Families
Torbay: Torbay Family Hubs have information on the Independent Travel Training available.
Independent Travel Training – Family Hub
Plymouth: Plymouth council have information on what is available in Plymouth.
Young carers
Devon
Young carers in Devon have access to several support services and resources to help them manage their responsibilities and wellbeing.
Devon County Council have a dedicate page to support young carers, giving information and advice on how to get support.
Young carers – Education and Families
Devon Carers: This organisation provides support for young carers, including information, advice, and access to respite activities. They offer a Young Carers Service specifically designed to meet the needs of young people who care for a family member.
Young Carers Support Groups: These groups offer a safe space for young carers to meet others in similar situations, share experiences, and receive support. Devon Carers can help connect you with local groups.
Educational Support: Schools in Devon often have designated staff members who support young carers. They can help with academic challenges and ensure that young carers receive the support they need to succeed in school.
Respite Activities: Devon Carers organises activities and events that provide young carers with a break from their caring responsibilities. These activities can be a great way to relax, have fun, and meet new friends.
Torbay
Torbay Young Carers Service
This service provides information, support, advice, and signposting for young people under 18 who care for a family member. They offer practical care, emotional support, and activities to help young carers take a break and connect with others in similar situations.
Young Carers Service – Torbay Council
- Support Groups and Activities: The Young Carers Service organises various activities around the bay, including arts and crafts, cooking, and games. These activities provide a fun and relaxed environment for young carers to meet others and take a break from their caring roles. Use their contact page to request more information.
- Individual Support and Befriending: Young carers can receive individual support within their family household or school. The service also holds lunch clubs in various schools where young carers can meet other students in similar roles. Use their contact page to request more information.
- Referral and Contact: If you or someone you know is a young carer in Torbay, you can contact the Young Carers Service by emailing youngcarers@torbay.gov.uk or calling 01803 208100. They can provide more information and help you access the support you need. Young Carers – Torbay Council
Plymouth
Plymouth Young Carers Service: Provided by The Children’s Society, this service supports young people under 18 who have caring responsibilities. They offer tailored one-to-one sessions, group support, advice, and information. They also help young carers and their families access other relevant support and mediate with other services on their behalf. You can contact the Plymouth Young Carers Service by calling 0800 027 4431 or emailing TCSPlymouth@childrenssociety.org.uk
The Plymouth Online Directory provides useful information and links to help Young Carers provide support to their friends, family and relatives at Young Carers Support Hub – Plymouth Online Directory
Time4U: This is Plymouth’s young carer offer for children and young people provided by Plymouth City Council, Barnardo’s and Hamoaze House.
Time 4 U – Plymouth Online Directory
Young Carers Book Collection: Plymouth Libraries have created a collection of books and helpful information to support young carers, with a range of books available suitable for children aged from three years.
Titles can be reserved to be collected from any of the Plymouth Libraries.
Young Carers book list – Plymouth
Caring for Carers: Improving Lives Plymouth: If you’re over 18 and look after a partner, family member, or friend with an illness or disability, you can ask for a carer’s assessment to look at how caring affects you and the sort of help you need.
Caring for Carers – Improving Lives Plymouth – Plymouth Online Directory
Friends & Families of Special Children: Friends and Families provide emotional support and activities for young carers with the Fun and Freedom Club. Visit their website and also keep up to date on their Facebook page.
Friends and Families | Empowering Families with Disabled Children | Plymouth | South West
Meet other young carers
Meeting up with other young carers is a great way to make new friends, have some fun and share some of your worries with people in similar situations to your own. Young carers projects can help you have a break from home, plus meeting other young carers can help you to relax. Young carers projects may offer evening clubs, weekends away, days out and even holidays, as well as friendly advice and information for you and for your family.
The Children’s Society runs the Young Carers Festival and funds projects for young carers.
https://www.childrenssociety.org.uk/information/young-people/young-carers/festival
Action for Children can put you in touch with other young carers. It also has free places for young carers at its residential activity camps.
https://www.actionforchildren.org.uk/our-work-and-impact/children-and-families/young-carers/
Other organisations that can help young carers
Sidekick: Sidekick is an anonymous and confidential text service for young carers aged 13-18 in the UK. You can text any time, about anything that’s bothering you as a young carer. They will find you the answers you need and text you back within 24 hours. 07888 868 059.
Youth groups
Devon
Space Youth Services: They run youth sessions across Devon for ages 11-19, offering safe, inclusive spaces to engage, learn, and connect. They have 10 youth centres where you can hang out with friends, gain confidence, and try new things.
https://www.spaceyouthservices.org
Young Devon: This organisation has been supporting young people for over 70 years. They offer various services, including accommodation, wellbeing support, skills development, and opportunities to have your voice heard.
Devon Youth Council: A group of 11-23 year olds (up to 25 if you have additional needs) who aim to get the voice of young people heard and make a positive change in the community.
Torbay
Torbay Youth Service offer a variety of youth groups and programs, including:
- SHE and US’ Young Women’s Group: An open drop-in group for young women aged 11-17, focusing on fun and empowering activities like outdoor games, music, cooking, and arts & crafts
- Tabletop Roleplay Group: For young people aged 14-19, this group meets weekly to engage in tabletop roleplaying games.
- Kaleidoscope LGBTQIA+ Group: A support group for LGBTQIA+ youth aged 13 and up, in collaboration with Proud2Be.
- Doing it Differently’ Youth Drop-In Group: Offers various activities like indoor climbing, five-a-side football, and project-based sessions for ages 11-17.
More information on these groups can be found on the Torbay Youth Group Offers website: https://www.torbay.gov.uk/children-and-families/services-and-support/youth-service-1/torbay-youth-service-group-offers/
Torbay Family Hubs provide information on clubs and activities for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND); what is available can be accessed via their website: Youth Clubs – Family Hub
SEND specific activities that are available in Torbay can be accessed via this link on the Family Hubs page: SEND specific Activities – Family Hub
Plymouth
Connecting Youth CIC: This organisation offers detached youth work and free open access sessions in areas like Ernesettle, Whitleigh, and St Budeaux. They provide a safe space for young people aged 10-19 to engage in activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, and community events.
http://connectingyouthcic.co.uk/
An A-Z directory of youth groups and organisations can be found on the Plymouth Online Directory, who offer various activities and support for young people aged 11-19 and up to 25 years if they have a disability or additional needs. They offer various activities and support.
https://www.plymouthonlinedirectory.com/community/youthdirectory?p=1