Cabinet will be asked to approve a refresh of the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Strategy, which sets out the priorities and vision for SEND services over the next four years.
The refreshed strategy titled “My life, My rights” will reflect the changing environment and priorities for children, young people, parents, carers and families.
A draft strategy has been developed through co-production with partners including the Rotherham Parent Carer Forum, Rotherham Special Educational Needs and Disability Information, Advice and Support Service (SENDIASS), Genuine Partnerships, special schools and mainstream schools.
Seven outcome statements have been produced following workshops and engagement with young people. The seven outcomes that will be measured against are as follows:
- I have a voice, and this is listened to and respected
- I am as healthy as possible
- I feel safe
- I have help and support in a way that suits me
- I have adults in my life who are supported to help me
- I am supported to be as independent as possible and have a purposeful life
- I belong and feel valued
Local data has highlighted three areas that have a significant impact on health, wellbeing and educational access for Rotherham’s children and young people.
The first area is the number of permanent exclusions and part-time timetables for children and young people with special educational needs. The second area is the number of disabled children and young people and those with special educational needs missing school due to health concerns. A clear process for engagement with children and young people is the third priority area.
Councillor Victoria Cusworth, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “We want all children and young people to reach their potential in Rotherham. Everyone deserves high-quality education with the health, care, and educational support that they need to flourish.
“We have been listening to children, young people and their families to understand what is working well and what we can do better. Consultation is set to take place later this year to help shape how the Council and partners deliver SEND services locally over the next four years.”
Subject to Cabinet approval, consultation on the draft strategy will take place in September 2024. There will be an opportunity for local people to provide feedback, before a final version is presented at Cabinet, prior to implementation.
At the meeting next month, Cabinet will also be asked to approve the SEND Joint Commissioning Strategy. This will ensure that children, young people, parents, carers, families and partners have an opportunity to shape the services that are commissioned.
You can view the Cabinet reports on the Rotherham Council website