Vulnerable young adults with special education needs (SEN) face being left in “an awful state” without proper Stormont funding according to a Mournes day care director.
In Northern Ireland, a statement of educational needs stops at 19 years of age putting young adults on a “cliff edge” of society unlike other parts of the UK with care legislation in place.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council agreed this week to engage with multiple Stormont ministers to urge them to enact legal protection and support for those aged 19 and over with SEN.
Rowallane Alliance Councillor Tierna Howie brought forward the motion, saying: “Young people with SEN in Northern Ireland face a daunting challenge, the support and legal protections that they rely on abruptly end once they turn 19.
“This cliff edge in provision not only disrupts their education and training, but also dismisses their potential to thrive as adults in stark contrast to what is provided in England and Wales.
“Yet here in Northern Ireland we lack statutory provisions. This legislative gap leaves young people and their families in an extremely vulnerable position.
“This is not just about bridging a gap, but about affirming the rights and dignity of every person with SEN in NI.
“Together we can advocate for a brighter, more inclusive future where no young person is left behind.”
The motion is seeking new legislation including new care packages for young SEN adults over 19 years of age in Northern Ireland.
A lack of funding is seen by some as the “massive challenge” facing the care system.
Mournes DUP rep, Glyn Hanna, sits on the board of directors at a south Down day care centre.
He said: “I have been involved with the group in Kilkeel, called Mourne Stimulus and 19-year-olds with SEN are very much at a cliff edge.
“When they come to that age they leave their childhood behind them, but they are not able to go into the work market and can get to a point that without serious help, they can get into an awful state.”
He added: “The one thing that is a massive challenge at all times in there, is that we are funded through the Southern Trust by a block grant, which is about £130k short every year, so we have to find it from somewhere.
“This is where SEN needs to be treated in a different way and funded properly. “If we can’t look after the most vulnerable adults and young people in our community that says a lot about ourselves. We need to look after the SEN of all, physical , mental, educational, there is a massive need.
“The Ministers for Communities, Economy, Education and Health need to come together and support SEN properly.”
