Recommendation 6 update
Recommendation 6 - The local area partnership should make sure that parents and carers and professionals receive clear and reliable information about how to access the range of support and services that are available.
What we have done so far:
- The SEND Network was launched by Southend SEND Indpendent Forum (SSIF) and the Local Offer Team on behalf of the SEND Area Partnership in October 2023. Two Network events have taken place so far.
- There are improved communications to stakeholders from across the SEND Partnership via the SEND Network and the SEND Partnership monthly e-newsletter (Peer into Southend SEND)
- We invited nominations of SEND Champions from local groups and organisations via the SEND Network.
- Feedback obtained via the SEND Network shaped a project plan scoping out the development of 11 roadmaps. The first 3 roadmaps are being developed in conjunction with the Parent Carer Forum Seminars between February and June 2024.
- The new Livewell platform hosting the Local Offer was launched in June 2023. Half-termly `Your Local Offer, Your Way` sessions and the Local Offer survey continue to evaluate and improve the information, advice and guidance available on the Local Offer.
- SEND Surgeries are now held in local schools and settings which provides greater access for families.
- Southend SEND Independent Forum (SSIF) and the Local Offer team refined and completed the SEND co production charter, which sits as an appendix to the Terms of Reference to the Strategic Partnership Board
- The Local Offer Team working with young people (age 11+) through meetings at schools and colleges to evaluate and develop advice and information on the Local Offer.
The difference this makes:
- The community are better informed of local area news and updates. There are now 2040 Subscribers to the SEND Partnership e-newsletter (Peer into Southend SEND).
- 32 organisations have joined the SEND Network to date and receive up to date communications from the Area Partnership to disseminate amongst their membership.
- 3 Roadmaps will be completed by the end of July 2024 and will provide families a visual tool to navigate services.
- 30 nominations for SEND community champions have been received.
- Young people have enjoyed giving their input on services used that young people have found helpful, website design, information and advice.
- Thanks to `Your Local Offer, Your Way` sessions 29 pages have been improved and and 5 new information advice pages created on the Local Offer.
- 3 feedback and co-design sessions were held in developing the look and feel of the Local Offer. With Half termly Your Local Offer Your Way sessions and participants supporting amends to 29 pages and created 5 new pages on the Local Offer.
- The updated Local Offer feedback survey has evidenced greater satisfaction from users.
- Over 80 parent-carers have attended SEND Surgeries this academic year; with 100% of those completing feedback stating that the surgery was helpful to them.
What we need to develop:
- Mechanisms for gathering the voice of children and young people and using it to inform strategic decision making.
Next steps:
- The SEND Area Partnership to gather feedback from all stakeholders on the delivery of the Strategic Action plan and respond to feedback.
- SEND champions induction in place and operational.