Dudley Council brings together key stakeholders to shape support for adulthood

Held at The Cable Plaza in Brierley Hill, the Preparing for Adulthood (PfA) partnership workshop built on work already underway through Dudley’s PfA Partnership Board, which was established to bring stakeholders together to develop the council’s approach in a co-produced way.

The workshop highlighted progress made so far, including the development of a strategic position and appointment of an associate director for preparing for adulthood at Dudley Council, and a summer programme of workshops and surveys gathering the views of children, young people and families.

Councillor Wayne Little, cabinet member for Children and Young People, said:

“Events like this show what can be achieved when the council, our partners and local families work together. Preparing young people for adulthood is a shared responsibility, and it is vital that as young people move from being children towards adulthood, that transition is as smooth and well supported as possible. I look forward to seeing these priorities translated into real improvements for young people across the borough.”

Through table-top exercises during the day, participants worked together to agree priorities for the next four years and to begin shaping a shared vision and tagline for Preparing for Adulthood in Dudley. Discussions reflected consistent themes raised by children and families in earlier engagement, including having a say in planning for the future, building skills and opportunities for independence, and access to friendships, good health and a place in the community.

Ten priorities emerged from the day’s discussions, including embedding PfA planning earlier, improving information and communication for families, strengthening young people’s voice and co-production, and expanding employment and career pathways for young people with additional needs.

The council will combine feedback from the workshop, identify common themes, and begin working with partners to co-produce a new Preparing for Adulthood strategy for Dudley, alongside an improvement plan informed by what young people and families have said.