Amy
When Amy came to the end of her school life after 14 years of specialist education and support, there was very little choice for her in how she would be spending her time. In spite of the fact that she was 'in the system', she left school at the end of the summer term with no firm plan and more or less became 'retired' at the ripe old age of almost 19 years! The local college and also an out-of-authority residential college both felt unable to meet her needs. The technical college in a neighbouring authority offered her a place but the large amount of travelling involved would have been a major problem for her. Amy was finally offered local authority day care, which at that time was not very challenging or stimulating for her, although as respite it was a good service. We had no choice but to accept the latter for three days per week and with the help if ILF funding, try to organise meaningful activities for the other 2 days.
Then along came The Next Step Trust! 
Amy now attends The Next Step Trust for two full days and spends her time in a stimulating environment where she has access to computers with the software and switches she can use; where she can cook and eat her lunch with her friends; where she can benefit from all the things a multi-sensory room can offer; where she can be monitored by a physiotherapist; where hydrotherapy and gardening are on offer; and where she can use community facilities. But most of all she now has a focus in her life and is back in touch with her peers and not isolated at home with little more than shopping to fill her days. She is regaining skills she was losing and enjoying being with her friends again.
As for myself, as a parent I am now benefitting from the support structures that an organisation such as The Next Step Trust can provide. It enables me to meet up with other parents again and to feel that I am not alone. When our special children leave school, all the support that the staff of the school have given us, goes too. Suddenly it's up to us. Parents have to take on the physical, emotional, educational, social and financial needs of their young person and that is not an easy task.
The Next Step Trust can provide us with the help we need to improve the lives and the futures of our young people.
Written by: Amy's Mum