Big success for Swindon SEND services event

The Local Offer Big Day, on Tuesday, 12 March, was aimed at people aged up to 25 and their families and shared information on the services the Council and other organisations can offer those with special educational needs and disabilities.

Free advice and guidance on the day ranged from information on statutory services and financial matters to community activities, equipment and adaptations and help transitioning from children’s services to adult services.

The event followed a recent inspection of Swindon’s Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) services where users of the services requested more opportunities to find out about the help and support available. Visitors were encouraged to provide feedback on the current services as part of the Council’s ongoing improvement programme.

Students from Crowdys Hill School in Swindon also received special praise from the SEND team as they volunteered to look after the reception desk and assisted visitors and staff throughout the day. The school, near Gorse Hill, supports children aged 5 to 19 with complex needs.

Councillor Mary Martin, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and School Attainment said “It was a very positive event and I am pleased it was so well attended by service users and their families. 

“Many visitors shared valuable feedback during the afternoon and we have come away with lots of ideas which we look forward to working on this year.”

Swindon SEND Families Voice said “As the parent carer forum for Swindon we were really pleased to work with Swindon Borough Council in hosting this event.

“The benefit of having so many services and frontline staff from the Council on hand to answer questions is extremely valuable and popular with parents and carers.

“We look forward to repeating the success of the event in the future.”