Latest news

• Call for evidence for the review of the Autism Strategy (external link)
• Apply to be a Chair at the Regional Stakeholder Network (external link) - The network brings the views of disabled people, local disability organisations, and organisations that represent disabled people closer to government. Become a Chair and help lead and drive the efforts of the group forward
  
• Wigan SEND newsletter - January 2019 (external link) - Wigan Parent Carer Forum
• Watch the 'Power in Numbers' video (external link) - Wigan Parent Carer Forum
• Wigan Parent Carer Participation Event 8th June 2018 (external link) - Hear the latest news on the transformation of SEND in Wigan, plans for the Neurodevelopmental Pathway and more
• North West SEND regional network newsletter May 2017 (external link)
• Disability Matters, the latest report on inclusion for disabled children, young people and their families
• Read our latest report on the feedback we have received on our Local Offer
• See the latest version of our plan to transfer statements into EHC plans
• Read the latest news from the Northwest SEND Network (external link).

"Moving On"

The "Moving On" (external link) film has been created by and features young people and parents from Wigan working with Bridgewater Adult Learning Disability Service to express their views, concerns and recommendations regarding their experience of health transition. It was made in partnership with People’s Voice Media (peoplesvoicemedia.co.uk); AQuA (Advancing Quality Alliance) and Bridgewater Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. Take a look at the film and think about the recommendations and how this may relate to your own family or your role if you are a health, education or social care practitioner.

• View the leaflet that introduces the new system for SEND for Wigan
• What do the SEN and disability reforms mean for schools? (external link) - the latest advice from the CDC
• Find out about the transfer process.

Consultation

The consultation on our Accessibility Strategy has now closed. You can also view associated guidance on Supporting Pupils at school with Medical Conditions.  Although the formal consultation has finished we welcome feedback on any aspects of the Local Offer.

Children and Families Act 2014

On 1 September 2014 The Children and Families Act (2014) became law. It reformed the systems for adoption, looked after children, family justice and special educational needs and disabilities (SENDs).

The reforms around SENDs were designed to develop and enhance:

• Involving children, parents and young people in decision making.
• The identification of children and young people’s needs.
• Choice and control for parents and young people over their support.
• Collaboration between education, health and social care services.
• High quality provision to meet the needs of children and young people with SEND.
• Support for successful preparation for adulthood.

Since September 2014 no Statements of SEN have been produced. They are being replaced by Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plans.

By April 2018 all current Statements of SEN will be converted to EHC Plans.

Between September 2014 and September 2016 young people with Leaning Difficulty Assessments (LDAs) transferred to the new system.

In April 2015 new duties for young offenders with SEND commenced.

View the timeline transition to the new system.

The Department of Education has written a letter for patents which outlines the changes from a parent’s perspective. Similar letters have been sent to teachers in schools and colleges.

Feedback

We are always looking for feedback on the content of the Local Offer. We are required to report on any feedback that we receive and what we have done in response to it.  You can find a link to our latest report above.

• Submit your comments and feedback.