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Empowering Parent Carers: A successful SEND Information Fair from Gloucestershire Parent Carer Forum
Published
Sarah Stripe, Operations Manager of the Gloucestershire Parent Carer Forum writes about the Forum's biggest event of the year.
On Monday, 10th February, the Delta Marriott in Brockworth became a hub of support and information for Parent Carers of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Hosted by the Gloucestershire Parent Carer Forum, the SEND Information Fair brought together over 30 professional organisations, keynote speakers, and dedicated help clinics to provide vital guidance and resources to families navigating the complexities of SEND support.
A wealth of support under one roof
The main hall buzzed with activity as representatives from the Health, Education, and Social Care sectors engaged with attendees, offering expertise and tailored advice. The diverse range of organisations ensured that families could access a broad spectrum of information, from healthcare services to educational provisions and social care support.
Expert insights from keynote speakers
Throughout the day, six keynote speakers shared valuable insights, addressing key issues and developments in the SEND landscape. Their sessions provided Parent Carers with essential knowledge and strategies to better support their children and advocate for their needs.
Practical help clinics for families
In addition to the wealth of information available, the event featured two dedicated help clinics run by the EHCP casework team and SENDIASS. These sessions offered personalised guidance to Parent Carers about their child or young person’s education.
A strong turnout and positive feedback
The event saw an impressive turnout, with over 200 parent carers from across Gloucestershire and beyond attending the Fair. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees praising the accessibility of information, the expertise of the professionals, and the overall organisation of the event.
Looking ahead
The success of the SEND Information Fair highlights the ongoing need for such initiatives, ensuring that parent carers are equipped with the knowledge and support they require. The positive feedback from this year’s attendees reinforces the importance of collaboration between families, professionals, and support services in creating an inclusive and informed community.
As the SEND landscape continues to evolve, events like these serve as crucial platforms for empowering parent carers and strengthening the network of support available to young people with SEND.
See the Fair from a health perspective, with a view of the event from Gloucestershire Designated Medical Officer, Charlotte McCauley.
