FAQ

Why choose EmpowerEd?

EmpowerEd is a small, experienced team that genuinely cares. We are experienced in supporting young people with autism, learning disabilities, and complex needs. We understand how to create learning environments that are safe, nurturing, and tailored to each individual.

What sets us apart is our commitment to doing what’s genuinely right for each learner. Young people at EmpowerEd are valued for themselves as individuals. Our experience of working with children and young people with complex needs, covers a vast range of different settings. We build strong relationships with students and their families, and everything we do is shaped by trust, respect, and genuine care.

Our focus is on meaningful outcomes that support long-term independence, well-being, and self-confidence. Eventually children and young people become adults and leave education – we want to give them every chance we can to reach their potential in adult life.

For some young people this could be gaining the skills they need to take part in work experience, get a job or return to mainstream education. For others, developing their ability to self advocate, to access the community, share space with others, make choices or increasing independence in life skills.

We don’t offer a one-size-fits-all approach — we listen, adapt, and work collaboratively to help every young person thrive.

What is your admissions process?

See Admissions for more information.

How do I find out more?

To get started, simply email us or complete the contact form. We’ll then arrange a convenient time for a phone or Teams call to discuss EmpowerEd in more detail. If you’re still interested after our initial conversation, we’ll arrange a follow-up meeting in person.

Can you support children / young people with complex needs?

EmpowerEd can support a range of needs including learners who require higher levels of staffing, or a bespoke package. We would discuss this during the placement funding.

Do you work with schools?

At EmpowerEd, students usually attend on a part-time basis. For the hours they are not with us, many will continue to access their home school or college, or have plans in place to do so.

We work closely with each young person’s home school, sharing attendance information and liaising regularly to explore the barriers that led to their placement with EmpowerEd. Families and schools receive regular feedback to ensure consistent support.

When the time comes for a young person to return to their home school, or to transition to a new setting, we provide tailored support. This includes preparing the student for change and sharing relevant information to ensure a smooth and successful move.

Who is EmpowerEd for?

EmpowerEd is for children and young people with autism, learning disabilities, and complex needs who may not be thriving in traditional school or college settings. We offer highly personalised, flexible support tailored to each learner’s needs.

How are placements funded?

Placements are typically funded by local authorities through EHCP or Social Care provision, but we also accept privately funded learners. Please contact us to discuss funding arrangements.

Do you offer clinical input?

We are happy to work with external clinicians such as Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and Physiotherapists where this supports a young person’s needs.

At present, we do not employ our own in-house clinical team, but this is something we have planned for as we grow. In the meantime, we welcome collaboration with local services, independent professionals, and any clinicians already involved in the young person’s care.

How can we trust a brand new company?

Setting up our own provision is new, but we have substantial experience of setting up specialist provisions for a range of organisations. A number of these went on to become Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ or national award winning. We are proud of our professional reputations.

All staff at EmpowerEd have enhanced DBS, are highly trained and you will be provided with frequent communication and updates.

We are very excited about EmpowerEd and have many plans for the future!