To support additional needs expeditions, Leaders should start with The Expedition Guide. 

The guide is designed to be the focal point of DofE policy and support for Leaders delivering expeditions, including delivering to young people with additional needs. The expedition requirements are covered in detail in the guide and there is also advice and information on a range of areas including modes of travel, expedition environments, and accommodation, providing options for various flexibilities. 

• Accessible Walks – The Outdoor Guide
• Ordnance Survey advice on how to find easy walking and cycling routes (England and Wales only)

Watch our signed videos playlist, designed to support and inspire young people with additional needs. 

• Signed videos

The DofE has developed functionality to allow specific Leaders (or other adults in the participant’s hierarchy) to act in eDofE on behalf of participants who are unable to engage fully in the system because they have additional needs or are prevented from using technology for cultural or religious reasons. 

Detailed information is set out in the eDofE Leader Recorded user guide. If you think your participants would benefit from using Leader Recorded, please speak to your Operations Officer. 

From time to time, DofE offers funding for settings that deliver to young people with additional needs and/or are in alternative provision. The current funds available are: 

• Funding for Additional Needs and Alternative Provision in England 

We knew anecdotally that the DofE has a positive impact on young people with additional needs but we wanted to have a better understanding of their experiences, so we commissioned Chrysalis Research to review our existing evidence and conduct surveys and interviews and produce an impact report.

• Additional Needs Impact Report