Chairperson’s Statement

"It’s been a busy start to the school year, and your Parent Carer Reps have been working diligently to ensure your voices are heard both locally and nationally. We’ve met with several local MPs, advocating for much-needed changes to the national SEND system. Additionally, we’ve engaged with local councillors to share your concerns and request that the PCF survey be included in the official scrutiny process. We also had the opportunity to present the survey results and our recommendations at the inaugural SEND Summit. Rest assured, we will continue to represent your views and drive forward the changes that matter to you."

Reflecting on the SEND Summit 2024: An Inspiring and Collaborative Event
Yesterday, we had the privilege of attending the SEND Summit 2024, held on October 10th, which turned out to be an incredibly successful and impactful event. With 270 attendees, including parent carers, educators, local authorities, and healthcare professionals, the day was a testament to the commitment and passion of all stakeholders working to improve outcomes for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

The event kicked off with a warm welcome from Cheshire West & Chesters Leader Councillor Louise Gittins, setting the scene for the day. This was followed by a presentation from Debbie Edwards, Head of Education and Inclusion on the national and local context of SEND, offering vital insights into the challenges and progress being made. We learned that over 1.6 million children in England have special educational needs, with a growing number of Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs), both nationally and within the Cheshire West and Chester (CW&C) region.

A notable highlight was the "Fit to Submit" presentation, delivered by Gill Tyler , (Designated Clinical Officer) and Karen Cove (Senior Manager Education Access/ SEN Team and Specialist Teaching) , which focused on the importance of ensuring that EHCP submissions are comprehensive, clear, and child centred. This sparked lively discussions during the tabletop activities, where attendees shared ideas on improving quality assurance processes and ensuring that the voice of the child is always central to the submission process.

A key focus was the Neurodiversity Recovery Programme, which aims to implement a standardised, needs-led, early-help approach using the Portsmouth Model. This will require support across our nine Places/Local Authority areas, aligned to the profiling tool. To achieve this, a survey has been developed to conduct a gap analysis across the 9 dimensions identified in the Portsmouth Profiling Tool, assessed by age and stage, and across our 9 Places in Cheshire & Merseyside. All stakeholders to participate in the survey to contribute to this essential analysis. Support Offer Survey Link 

Kevin Burns Send Attendance Advisor for the Department of Education introduced the concept of "Ordinarily Available" provision, a framework aimed at defining what should be available in schools to support SEND pupils before the need for an EHCP. His session included a Mentimeter activity, fostering a collaborative atmosphere as participants engaged in real-time feedback and suggestions on how to close gaps in provision and improve communication across the board.

A personal highlight was Julie Duff's moving presentation on the "Parents' Voice." Julie, representing the Parent Carer Forum, emphasised the importance of co-production and collaboration between parents, professionals, and decision-makers. Her presentation reinforced the message that effective SEND support is built on the collective input of everyone involved, especially families, whose lived experiences provide invaluable insight.

Throughout the day, attendees engaged in a series of networking sessions, interactive activities, and feedback discussions. The atmosphere was vibrant, with a genuine sense of community and shared purpose. Conversations were rich, solutions-focused, and grounded in a collective desire to ensure that all children with SEND receive the support they deserve.
The summit concluded with remarks from Councillor Adam Langan Cabinet Member for Childrens and Families in CW&C, who reinforced the importance of maintaining momentum and taking tangible next steps based on the discussions. As the event wrapped up with further networking opportunities, there was a strong sense of optimism and commitment to continue working together toward a better future for SEND provision.

In summary, the SEND Summit 2024 was an inspiring event that brought together a diverse and passionate group of individuals, all working toward the shared goal of improving SEND services. The turnout was fantastic, and the energy in the room was palpable. With such a wide range of stakeholders involved, including parent carers who play a crucial role in this space, the event highlighted the power of collaboration and the importance of putting the needs of children and young people at the heart of everything we do.

We are committed to keeping everyone updated on the progress and outcomes from the SEND Summit. Regular updates will be shared, including key actions from your feedback and developments like the Neurodiversity Recovery Programme and gap analysis survey. Stay tuned for more information as we work together to improve SEND provision.

PCF Survey - Council's Scrutiny Process - Update
 SEND Scrutiny Process Update
We wanted to update you on the scrutiny process and the key issues you've raised. While the panel may not choose to review every issue we've put forward, rest assured that your concerns have been heard and are being taken into account.
Find out more in our latest blog!

Attention Parents and Carers!
Following the recent SEND Scrutiny Meeting we attended, the Chair is eager to hear from more parents about your personal journeys and experiences with SEND support.
We’re inviting you to join an online meeting on 22nd October from 10-11am to share your thoughts and help shape future services. Your voice matters, and this is a great opportunity to make an impact!
To register your interest, please complete the form using the link below. 

 Need help with the EHCP process?
Don’t forget to pop the 24th October in your diary  We're here to support you!

Join us for the first Parent Carer Forum (PCF) Coffee Morning of the academic year at Down Syndrome Cheshire 

Come along to connect with other parents and receive expert advice from the Information Advice and Support Services (IASS) Whether you're new to the EHCP process or need guidance, IASS provides impartial and up-to-date information on:

 Education, health, and social care
National & local policy
Your rights & options
How to participate and find the support you need


Don’t miss out on this valuable opportunity to get the support you deserve. We look forward to seeing you there!

 Mental Health Forum! 
All SEND parents and caregivers welcome! Whether you can stay for the whole event or just pop in for a coffee, we’d love to see you there! 
We’ve got an informative day planned with:
A range of services and charities sharing what’s available in the area
Information on support and services while waiting for appointments or assessments
Parent Support & Resilience training 
… and of course, lunch and refreshments included! 
This is a great opportunity to connect with other parents and carers while getting helpful advice and support for your children's & young people's mental health journey.

 FREE TRAINING OPPORTUNITY! 

We are excited to offer a FREE online training course exclusively for our members and their families.

This is a fantastic opportunity to enhance your skills and knowledge.
Don’t miss out on this chance to learn and grow

Join Us for a Coffee & Chat Drop-In Session!

Topic: Short Breaks & Wraparound Care

Do you struggle with wraparound care or need a break from your caring role?

This session is for YOU! 🌟

Come along to:

🕒Learn about Wraparound Care: Support available outside school hours for SEND families, including after-school, weekends, and holidays.

🌼Explore Short Breaks: Find out how to access services that give you a break while your child receives quality care.

🙋‍♀️Ask Questions & Give Feedback: Your chance to chat with service providers and share your thoughts.

🤝Meet Other Parents & Carers: Enjoy a coffee and connect with others in a relaxed, informal setting.

We’re here to help you navigate support options! 🌈

📢 Everyone is welcome! Let’s chat, share, and support each other! 😊

SAVE THE DATES....

PCF Virtual Forums via ZOOM

Wednesday 11th December 2024– Zoom
EHCP Mock Panel
How the process works and decisions are made.

Thursday 13th March 2025 – Zoom 
Transitions and Pathways.

NEW!!! PCF BLOGS.....

In order to keep you up to date on all of th workstreams we are attending to ensure that your experiences are heard we are creating a new BLOG area on our website. Take a look at our first blog about the importance of co-production.

🌟 Annual Health Check Update 🌟

Stay informed with the latest updates from the Project Support Officer for Cheshire West, Starting Well, and Learning Disability & Autism. Learn more about the definition of disability and the criteria for accessing Annual Health Checks.

 Latest Updates for Cheshire Neurodevelopment Clinical Network and Cheshire & Merseyside Neurodiversity Program! 

PCF CWaC are attending local meetings (Cheshire Neurodevelopmental Clinical Network) and regional meetings at the Cheshire and Merseyside ICB level.

Both PCF Cheshire West and East have been at the forefront, pushing for changes that matter most to families.

Your feedback and involvement has been and still is vital in shaping the future of support in our community. 

We dive into the progress being made towards a more neuro-affirmative system across Cheshire and Merseyside. From streamlining pathways to innovative projects supporting families, there’s a lot happening and a lot to be done!

✨ Information Advice Support Services (IASS) ✨

Do you have a child or young person with SEND? IASS offers free, impartial legal advice to help you navigate the complexities of the education, health, and care systems.

Their confidential service provides parents, children, and young people with the advice and information needed to make informed decisions. Here’s how they can help:

⭐️ Listening & Encouragement: Empowering you to confidently express your views.

⭐️ Meeting Preparation: Trained staff ready to help you prepare for important meetings.

⭐️ SEND Support: Guidance on Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) support in schools/settings.

⭐️ School Funding & Provision: Information on what’s available and how it’s funded.

⭐️ Legal Advice: The law on school admissions, appeals, and exclusions where there is SEND.

⭐️ EHC Plans: Support throughout the Education, Health and Care (EHC) assessment and planning process.

⭐️ Health & Care Assessments: Guidance on your child’s health and care needs.

⭐️ Local Policy & Practice: Advice on local regulations and policies.

⭐️ Home Education & School Transport: Information on elective home education and school transport.

⭐️ Medical Needs & Attendance: Support for children with medical needs and advice on school attendance.

⭐️ Local Offer & Personal Budgets: Information on the Local Offer and advice on personalisation and personal budgets.

⭐️ SEN Law & Disability: Understanding and applying SEN Law, with help from independently trained staff.

⭐️ Resolving Disagreements: Assistance with mediation, tribunals, and more.

⭐️ Collaboration: Working with the parent carer forum, the local authority, and other organizations to ensure your voice is heard.

Don't forget that you can keep up to date with the latest PCF news and signposting information by checking our website and following us on Facebook. 

🌟 October is ADHD Awareness Month!🌟

Free Webinars! 💡

Check out this helpful guide to understanding ADHD and gain insights into how you can support children with ADHD on their journey to success.

- ADHD burnout 

- ⁠ADHD executive functioning 

- ⁠ADHD dysregulation

- ⁠ADHD early years

And more!

FREE event in developing research projects on areas that people with lived experience said are important to them. This year’s focus is Growing Older with Intellectual Disabilities
Date: Friday 18 October 2024
Time: 9.30am-3.00pm
Venue: Crowne Plaza, Trinity Street, Chester CH1 2BD

Though at Café 71 the Spider Project talk about mental health everyday, today is a great prompt to have important conversations and be a little kinder to yourself
Don't forget they are here 10am-10pm everyday of the year in person or over the phone (01244 393139)

There's other support out there as well as Café 71

Their Vision

A world where Autistic parents are empowered, celebrated, and supported to thrive. We envision a society where their unique perspectives are valued, their voices are amplified, and their families flourish without judgement or barriers. 

 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗔𝗻𝘅𝗶𝗼𝘂𝘀 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗿𝗲𝗻 

I'm so pleased to share that Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (CWP) is offering 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) group interventions for parents of anxious children this autumn! 

These supportive and non-judgemental sessions are designed to equip parents with the tools they need to help children cope with anxiety—whether you're facing mild or severe cases. Sessions are tailored for different age groups and needs, including:

 𝗙𝗲𝗮𝗿-𝗟𝗲𝘀𝘀 (𝗜𝗡 𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗦𝗢𝗡) for parents of school-aged children (6 to 14 years) with moderate to severe anxiety.

 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗶𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗧𝗶𝗴𝗲𝗿 (𝗢𝗡𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗘) for parents of primary-aged children (5 to 11 years) with mild to moderate anxiety.

The groups will help parents understand anxiety, teach coping strategies, and provide confidence-building skills that make a real difference in family life. 

 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗺𝗻 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗽𝘀 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗦𝗼𝗼𝗻!

- Ellesmere Port & Winsford for Fear-Less (in-person)

- Online for Timid to Tiger

October Half Term sessions 
Bookings are now open for our October Half Term sessions!
We will be hosting our 2024 Energise Spooktacular throughout the UK this coming October... Take a look at what some of our areas have in store 

USEFUL CONTACTS....

Live Well Cheshire West - www.livewell.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk

Information Advice and Support Service (IASS) - Tel 0300 123 7001 

www.livewell.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/Services/1279 

SEN Team - Tel 0151 337 6505
senteam@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk

Starting Well - www.startingwell.org.uk/

West Cheshire 0-16 CAMHS Tel - 01244 393200
www.cwp.nhs.uk/services-and-locations/services/west-cheshire-0-16-camhs/

IPSEA- Call-in Helpline Tel- 0300 22 5899
https://www.ipsea.org.uk/Pages/Category/service-overview

CONTACT Advice Line -Tel-0808 808 3555
https://contact.org.uk/ 

Get Involved with the PCF.... 

We are always looking for new parents and carers to join us. You can attend meetings, give feedback to influence the services your child or young person uses or help us to identify the gaps in services. Also, a chance to meet other parents and learn about what's on offer in Cheshire West & Chester. 
 
email contact.pcfcwac@gmail.com
or join us for one of our meetings. We hope to see you soon!

Copyright © 2024 CWAC PCF, All rights reserved.
Our mailing address is:  contact.pcfcwac@gmail.com