Wolverhampton continues to make good progress to improve services for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), according to the latest review meeting involving the city’s SEND and Inclusion Partnership Board, the Department for Education, and NHS England.

Key points mentioned:

  • 5 out of 6 improvement areas identified in the Local Area SEND inspection have now been successfully addressed.
     
  • Wolverhampton was praised for its strong leadership and governance arrangements to co-production with young people through HY5! and with families via alternative routes while the Parent Carer Forum undergoes reform.
     
  • A new parent carer forum, SEND Wolves Parent Voice, is being set up with support from Contact to improve family involvement. 
     
  • Reviewers noted the city’s ability to demonstrate impact in improving the accuracy and timeliness of Education, Health and Care Needs Assessments and Annual Reviews, despite unprecedented demand and capacity challenges.
     
  • A recovery plan is in place to address delays of Education, Health and Care Needs Assessments and Annual Reviews, and assessors are keen to see the results of its implementation over the coming months.
     
  • The city’s ‘Local Offer’ website, has been relaunched and is helping families feel better informed and more aware of available support.