A TEAM at Gloucestershire County Council that supports young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) has been shortlisted for a national award.

The council’s Preparing for Adulthood team has been named as a finalist in the Council for Disabled Children’s What Works in SEND - Preparing for Adulthood Award, part of the SEND Awards 2026.

The awards recognise organisations and teams from across the country that are improving services for children and young people with SEND, with a focus on collaboration, innovation and positive outcomes.

Cllr Linda Cohen, Cabinet member for Education at Gloucestershire County Council, said: “This recognition is a real credit to the Preparing for Adulthood team and reflects the commitment and professionalism they show in their work every day.

“Helping young people with SEND prepare for adulthood is vital, and I’m delighted to see their efforts recognised at a national level. I would like to congratulate everyone involved and wish them the very best of luck at the awards in April.”

Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on Thursday, April 23 at The University of Birmingham’s Great Hall.

The Preparing for Adulthood team works with young people with SEND to help them plan for the future, supporting them to build confidence, develop skills and access opportunities.