Your Future Starts Here is a practical e-handbook for young people aged 16–18 in the New Forest who are thinking about their next steps into education, training, work, volunteering, apprenticeships or supported employment. It may also be useful for parents, carers, professionals and young adults up to 25 who are looking for a way forward.
The handbook brings together local and national information in one place, including post-16 options, local study providers, apprenticeships, work experience, volunteering, SEND support, supported internships, wellbeing, travel, money, seasonal work and useful contacts. It is intended as a starting point rather than official advice, and all information should be checked directly with the relevant organisation before applying, visiting or making plans.
I developed this first version, with assistance from AI, after hearing from families and young people who were unsure where to begin. It will be updated over time as new information, corrections and local opportunities are shared.
I would welcome comments, corrections or suggestions for additional information that could be useful in future versions. I would also be very pleased to hear from anyone who has found the resource helpful, or who has been able to take a positive step after using it.
Please email: email@francarpenter.com