Speak Up, Speak Out!  was an event where fifty eight young people with additional needs took part in activities and games at a participation day on 21 March 2019. They gave their views on school, making changes, advice and information and free time.

There's an event report to show what the young people had to say and what ISEND is doing in response to develop services.

We've started work to develop a network of schools, education, health and care services to strengthen how children and young people with additional needs have a say in decisions made about them at all levels. Anyone who'd like to take part in this project can contact localoffer@eastsussex.gov.uk

The Able Group meets once a month on a Saturday to talk about things that are important to them and to speak up about services and support. Young people age 12 to 25 with additional needs or a disability are very welcome to join. In the coming year, The Able Group will be creating some campaign artwork, taking part in Takeover Day 2019 and giving their views in various consultations. They also take time to do fun activities and celebrate their achievements. See The Able Group’s website for more information.

Children and young people with additional needs shared their top tips for health professionals to help services make themselves more ‘child and young person friendly’. A leaflet has been put together and circulated to GP surgeries and other health locations. Staff at the Scott Unit are already making changes to their waiting area and how they communicate with children at appointments.

This is a great example of participation in practice - thanks goes to students from The Causeway, Cavendish and Lindfield schools and The Able Group.

Contact localoffer@eastsussex.gov.uk if you’d like to have a copy for yourself or to share with others.

The Children’s Integrated Therapy and Equipment Service (CITES) hosted their first ever conference for school staff in May.

The focus was on Making Therapy Work and delegates took part in a range of workshops to learn about the practical application of simple therapy approaches that benefit all children, especially those with additional needs.

The keynote speech was delivered by broadcaster, vocal coach and campaigner Carrie Grant. Carrie spoke movingly about her experiences of raising children who have special educational needs and organised a room full of teachers and council staff to sing in harmony!

Feedback from delegates was overwhelmingly positive and the service hopes to host another conference next year.

Find out more about CITES.