As we mark SEND Awareness Week, it's an important opportunity to recognise the challenges facing children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities, and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring every child receives the support they deserve.
Last Friday, I was pleased to bring together representatives from Suffolk County Council, education providers and community organisations for a SEND roundtable at West Suffolk College.
As your MP, I regularly hear from families struggling to access the support their children need. Our discussion was an important opportunity to bring those responsible for delivering services together, identify areas for improvement and explore how we can work collaboratively to achieve better outcomes.
We discussed the significant increase in demand for Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), alongside concerns about communication with families, Annual Reviews, specialist school placements and funding pressures. While progress has been made in reducing EHCP waiting times, there is clearly more to do. I also reiterated my support for the f40 campaign for fairer education funding, recognising the pressures facing schools and local authorities.
I was encouraged by the constructive discussion and the shared determination to improve services. My thanks go to everyone who attended, to West Suffolk College for hosting us, and especially to the college's catering students who kindly provided refreshments. I'll continue working with local partners and listening to families to help ensure every child in Suffolk has the opportunity to thrive.
The catering students at West Suffolk College with their delicious creations!
