SSIF SEND Reform drop-in Sessions
February 27, 2026
We will be hosting a series of informal drop-in sessions for parent carers to share views and ask questions about the Government SEND reform proposals and consultation.
The Government's Schools White Paper, Every child achieving and thriving was published on Monday 23 February 2026. The Paper sets out proposed reforms to the schools and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) system in England.
The Government's consultation on the proposed reforms is open until 18 May. You can read the proposals and share your views here: SEND reform: putting children and young people first - Department for Education - Citizen Space
As Southend's Parent Carer Forum, we encourage parent carers to engage with the consultation.
To support this, we are hosting informal drop‑in sessions where you can share your views and ask questions.
All sessions will be held in Southend Civic Centre, Victoria Avenue, Southend, SS2 6ER on the following dates:
- Friday 13 March, 9.30am to 10.30am Committee Room 2
- Tuesday 17 March, 9.30am to 10.30am Committee Room 2
- Monday 23 March, 12.30pm to 1.30pm Committee Room 3
- Thursday 23 April, 10.30am to 11.30am Committee Room 7
- Friday 1 May, 12.30pm to 1.30pm, Committee Room 7
- Monday 11 May, 10am to 11am, Committee Room 4
The Southend SEND Area Partnership are also hosting an information session about the proposed SEND reforms on Friday 17 April 9.30am to 10.30am at Southend Civic Centre (Jubilee Room). You can book a place on that event here.
Support for Children and Young People's Mental Health and Wellbeing For those who were unable to attend our recent event, we are pleased to share the presentation slides from the day. We were delighted to host a range of speakers who highlighted the support available to children, young people and families across Essex. Representatives from NHS Essex Integrated Care Board (ICB) provided an overview of their Babies, Children and Young People portfolio and their commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people through their ROAR values – Ready, Organised, Ambitious and Relentless. Their work spans a wide range of areas including mental health, neurodiversity, SEND and physical health services. The School Nursing Team and Mental Health Support Team (MHST) shared information about the support they provide to children and young people, including emotional wellbeing support, resources available within schools and colleges, and ways families can access advice and guidance. The NHS Essex ICB delivered information about Mid and South Essex Children and Young People Counselling Service, delivered in partnership by Kids Inspire, Renew Counselling and Open Door. The service provides accessible emotional wellbeing and counselling support for children and young people experiencing challenges such as anxiety, low mood and the impact of trauma. We also heard from SNAP, who outlined the wide range of support they offer to families of children and young people with additional needs and disabilities, including information, guidance, counselling, helplines and face-to-face support. We hope you find the information within these slides helpful in understanding the services and support available to children, young people and families across our area.
Tell us about your Family's experience of Mental Health support Services in Southend-on-Sea.
We know that many parent carers across Southend share the same frustrations when it comes to accessing the right support for children and young people with SEND. Southend SEND Independent Forum has submitted a detailed response to the Government’s SEND Reform Consultation, drawing directly on the lived experiences of local families. Our submission has been shaped by the experiences, views, and feedback shared by parent carers across Southend. Through conversations with families, community engagement, online discussions, and direct feedback, we have highlighted the challenges many children and young people with SEND continue to face, alongside practical recommendations for improving support and outcomes. We would like to thank every parent carer who took the time to share their experiences, concerns, and ideas. Your voices have been central in helping us reflect the realities facing families in Southend and strengthen this response. Our response highlights the areas that parent carers tell us matter most — including early identification and support, inclusive mainstream education, EHCPs, transitions, communication with families, and genuine co-production. It also sets out practical recommendations for creating a SEND system that is more consistent, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of children, young people, and their families. While there are examples of good practice, families continue to face significant challenges in securing timely and appropriate support. We believe meaningful reform must focus on improving outcomes, reducing inequalities, and ensuring children and young people with SEND can access education and opportunities on an equal footing with their peers. You can read our full consultation response here:
Healthy Parent Carer Programme – Booking Now Open! We’re so pleased to share that SSIF has been accredited to deliver a brand-new 6-week programme dedicated entirely to your health and wellbeing. As parent carers, you spend so much time looking after everyone else. This programme is a chance to focus on you — to breathe, recharge, and connect with others who truly understand your journey. Starts Monday 8th June 2026 Only 14 spaces are available to keep the group supportive and personal. Over the 6 weeks, we’ll explore ways to: Make time for yourself Connect with other parent carers Learn simple self-care and stress-management strategies Prioritise your own wellbeing Find a little more calm and balance Our sessions are run for Parent Carers, by Parent Carers — a safe, understanding space where your wellbeing really matters. Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided, and there’s an onsite café at the Civic Centre. Parking can be limited, so please allow extra time if you're driving. To help you truly switch off and focus on yourself, babies and children can’t be accommodated during the course. Find out more: www.healthyparentcarers.org Book tickets: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/.../healthy-parent-carers-6... - Or Scan the QR Code on the poster.
