New grant of £454,000 will provide more support for SEND children
Wednesday, January 31, 2024
We can now provide more support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) thanks to a new grant of £454,000.
A new youth club for SEND children is planned, and additional afterschool clubs along with support for those with significant or specific needs will now be added to the existing services, for children and young people with SEND, and their families.
It follows a third successful bid for funding from the Department for Education (DfE) who have increased this year’s grant by £155,000. Last year we were given £298,701.
“We are pleased to have received additional money so we can continue to increase our offer for children and young people with SEND.
“Next year we can extend our provision, to include homeschooled children to help reduce any isolation they may experience.
“So far, we have seen positive results among the children who have already benefitted, from the activities and services these grants have made possible.
“This is fantastic, and our aim now is to carry on making a lasting impact on their lives and giving them the skills to have a better future.”
Cllr Margaret Isherwood
Cabinet Member for Children and Young People
This third-year grant will give us the money to continue offering extra short breaks. These prepare young people for adulthood, and provide more intensive support to young people, aged 12 and over who have autism, social, emotional, and mental health needs.
There will be more evening, weekend and school holiday activities available, giving parents and carers a chance to take a break from their caring responsibilities. Plus, additional whole family and sibling activities, giving families the opportunities to engage in leisure and social activities together.
The new services will start in April 2024 and are funded by a grant from the Department for Education’s Short Breaks Innovation Fund.