Each local area has statutory duties* and responsibilities in supporting children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). The Southend SEND Partnership was formed to:
- ensure the local area carries out its duties
- evaluate the effectiveness and impact of support
(*Statutory duties under the Children and Families Act 2014).
The local area is not just Southend Council. It also includes:
- the Mid and South Essex Integrated Care System (ICS) and Integrated Care Board (ICB)
- public health
- NHS England for specialist services
- early year's settings
- schools
- further education providers
They are referred to collectively as the Southend SEND Partnership.
The contracted Parent Carer Forum, (Southend SEND Independent Forum) is an equal and important member of the Partnership.
Together the Southend SEND Partnership oversees the work of the local area to ensure children and young people with SEND achieve the best possible educational and other outcomes, such as:
- being able to live independently
- securing meaningful employment
- being well prepared for their adult lives
Members of the Southend SEND Partnership are represented on SEND Governance groups to oversee the work of the local area.
- the SEND Strategic Partnership Board (SSSPB) leads the area's work by providing strategic oversight and scrutiny of SEND operational workstreams. It reports directly to the Health and Wellbeing Board (HWWB).
- a SEND Operations Group oversees and supports the infrastructure that helps partners work together effectively. It reports directly to the SEND Strategic Partnership Board
Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission (CQC) jointly inspect local areas to see how well they meet their responsibilities for children and young people with SEND. Find out more about Southend Inspections and Reviews.