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New initiative seeks input from parents of children with SEND on the Isle of Wight

A new initiative aims to involve parents and carers of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in shaping services on the Isle of Wight.

Organisers are inviting parents and carers of young people aged 0 to 25 to take part in discussions about the design, development, and implementation of support services.

Zoom meetings offer opportunity to engage
The forum will hold two online meetings in March to gather input from families.

Parents can join a session on Wednesday 5th March from 10am to 12pm or on Tuesday 18th March from 7pm to 9pm.

These meetings will provide an opportunity for families to share their experiences and help shape the services available to their children.

Focus on local, regional, and national impact
The forum wants to ensure that families on the Isle of Wight have a voice in services at all levels.

By engaging with parents and carers, organisers hope to create a platform that influences decision-making locally, regionally, and nationally.

How to get involved
Anyone interested in taking part can book a place by emailing [email protected].

Participants can choose whether to use cameras and audio during the meetings, and a text chat option will also be available.

The organisers emphasise the importance of including those with lived experience in shaping SEND services.

A call for inclusion
The forum operates under the principle of “Nothing about us without us”, highlighting the need for direct involvement from families affected by SEND.

This initiative provides an opportunity for parents and carers to play an active role in ensuring the best outcomes for their children.