Agenda item

For the Select Committee to consider the report of the review group on “Pathways for Children with SEND”.

Contributors:

Cllr Diana Blamires (Chairman)

Group Members

Councillor Blamires, Chair of the SEND task and finish review group, provided the following update about its progress: 

·       The inquiry focused on improving the experience for parents of children with autism, ADHD, anxiety or depression awaiting diagnosis when accessing pathways to services for SEND. Surveys had shown that over 90% of parents suspecting their child might have one or more of these conditions were correct, emphasising the need to offer substantial support from the outset and easy access to key information.

·       Several recommendations were made to improve access to pathways to SEND services which had arisen through the extensive interviewing of relevant key officers, staff of the authority and parents.

·       One recommendation was made to provide additional training for teaching and nursery staff to validate parents' concerns. Failure to offer timely support may result in the escalation of needs and increased costs for children's services. The need for more educational psychologists, including trainee positions, was also raised, as their input could be valuable even before a formal diagnosis was made.

·       Issues were raised regarding the accessibility and effectiveness of the section of the council's website called the ‘local offer’, which was for the provision of SEND information. Many parents reported difficulties navigating the website and suggested improvements such as short videos in simple language and clear signposting. The term ‘local offer’ used nationally by the government for local SEND provision appeared to be not adequately understood.

·       Additionally, schools reported positive experiences when children or returning students with ADHD and autism spoke openly about their conditions, helping to reduce bullying and stigma while increasing understanding among their peers. Schools also highlighted the importance of showcasing successful individuals with ADHD and autism as role models, providing inspiration and boosting confidence for students facing similar challenges.

During the discussion, comments and questions raised by the Committee included:

·       Attendees commended the work of the inquiry group on the report.

·       A Member asked if there were one or two key issues that could be focused on to make a difference, considering the overwhelming number of issues discussed. Cllr Blamires highlighted the lack of information as a recurring problem. Many parents, especially those new to the system, struggled to find the right information and resources. The overall aim should be to simplify and streamline the process of accessing relevant information, creating clear and accessible pathways for parents and professionals.

·       A Member noted that progress had been made in the early pathway communication, particularly with the implementation of written statements of action. Initiatives like the AET (Autism Education Trust) programme could be expanded to include other conditions, providing quick and effective interventions at the beginning of the diagnostic pathway.

·       Although not formally recommended, the value of parent-led organisations was acknowledged, with several individuals highlighting the significant support they offer. It was proposed that the council promote the formation of local parent groups during their interactions with specific organisations, as parents involved in such groups found them highly beneficial.

·       A Member suggested considering an alternative name for the ‘local offer’, mentioning the possibility of including the term ‘SEND’ in the name to ensure its relevance for concerned parents who may search for related information online. Mr Nash explained that the term ‘local offer’ was mandated by the Children and Families Act 2014, which posed a challenge in finding an alternative term.

·       The crucial role of school staff in daily interactions with children was highlighted, emphasising the need to enhance their skills in understanding and addressing the challenges faced by children with SEND.

·       Recommendation 8, which focused on training more educational psychologists, was considered particularly significant. The role educational psychologists played in providing expert advice, guidance, leadership, and input, complementing the work of practitioners in schools and colleges, was highlighted.

The Chairman thanked Cllr Blamires and Members of the inquiry group for their work on the report, which would be presented to Cabinet at its meeting in September.