Engaging Dialogue on Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
A recent gathering focused on the challenges faced by parents of children with special educational needs and disabilities (Send) and education professionals took place in parliament. The event was organized by Lee Barron, the Labour MP for Corby and East Northamptonshire, who previously hosted a similar session in January within his constituency. This meeting brought together parent groups, schools, professionals, and government representatives to discuss pressing issues and potential solutions.
Susan Liverman, a resident of Corby and part of the Not Fine in School campaign, highlighted the significance of the round table discussions. She emphasized that the primary goal was to “focus on solutions around exclusion” and noted that this objective was successfully met. Liverman also mentioned that earlier this year, Barron presented the findings from his initial Send community event to the parliamentary Education Select Committee. This initiative aimed to improve the provision of support for children with special educational needs.
The meeting in Westminster featured professionals from Lodge Park Academy and Red Kite Special Academy, both located in Corby, as well as representatives from the University of Bedfordshire. Liverman shared her insights with Radio Northampton’s Annabel Amos, stating that those closest to the problem—parents and professionals—are also the ones closest to the solutions. She expressed an ongoing commitment to continue these meetings, with the next one planned for the autumn. The outcomes of these discussions are intended to influence decisions at Westminster and the Department of Education.
Liverman further explained that the focus is not solely on school-related issues but also on employment and the future of young people once they enter the workforce. She described the meeting as “really important,” which has increased her engagement with the cause. Paul Meadows, the founder of SENDS 4 Dads, also attended the meeting. This group, established in 2015, has seen a surge in activity since the pandemic. Meadows noted that those present were encouraged to return to parliament to maintain momentum and continue advocating for their cause.
Meadows expressed hope that the group could reach out to even more MPs to share their experiences as parents of children with Send. The discussions underscore the importance of collaboration between various stakeholders to address the complex needs of children with special educational requirements. As the conversation continues, the emphasis remains on creating supportive environments that foster growth and development for all children.
