SEND News and Updates for Parents
Find the latest news and updates for parents.
Page last updated
This page is frequently updated with the latest news and updates for parents in relation to SEND, this includes a range of local activities and useful resources.
Communicating Better
A course to help parents communicate better with each other - Parents only. Must have a child under 19 years or 25 years with SEN living at home and be a resident of Sutton.
Disagreements are a normal part of life, and most couples argue from time to time. The way you approach these conversations can make a big difference to you, your partner, and your children.
Would you like to learn healthy ways to deal with stress and conflict? If yes please come and join us at:
Carshalton Family Hub & Children’s Centre Tweeddale Road, SM5 1SQ
When: Tuesday 29th April 2025 Start at 9.30am Finish 12.30pm
Sutton Independent Travel Training Workshop
Open for all SEND families, light refreshments will be provided.
When: Thursday 20th February, 1pm - 2pm
Where: Sutton Central Library, Community Events Space, 1st Floor
To book contact: itt@kcil.org.uk or call them on 02085469603
Help Shape World Autism Acceptance Events in Sutton
Are you an autistic young person, family member, or a professional supporting autistic people? We need YOU!
By filling out our short form, you'll play a vital role in creating events and activities that celebrate and support our autistic community. Your ideas and experiences are valued and will guide how we mark this special month.
Click here to fill out the form [External Link]
London Futures Programme
The Change Foundation are recruiting for their London Futures programme, which is an employability and sport programme for 18 - 30-year-olds with a disability who would like to play some sport, meet new people and feel part of a community, as well as receive support around the skills needed for the world of work.
London Futures will be running weekly sport and employability sessions starting on Wednesday 19th March from 4:30pm - 6pm at In2Sport, 40 Harbord Square, E14 9QH, Canary Wharf.
We are looking to recruit 18 – 30 year olds who are job ready, are independent travellers and who need that extra support in kickstarting their future careers.
For more information please contact Ryan Jones: ryanjones@changefdn.org.uk / 07824589517
Free online CV and Interview workshops
Real, a Disabled people's organisation is offering free CV and interview workshops to deaf, disabled and neurodivergent people aged 16-25 looking for work or soon to be leaving school.
When: Monday 17th February, 10:30am - 1:45pm or Friday 21st February, 2:30 - 5:15pm
To sign up click on the link [External Link]
Free employment skills workshop for 16-25 deaf, disabled and neurodivergent people
Real, a Disabled people's organisation is offering free workshops to deaf, disabled and neurodivergent people aged 16-25. The workshop is ideal for school leavers, job seekers and those wanting to meet new people.
The session will include:
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Group based activities that will help you identify and develop transferable skills
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CV and interview sessions including reasonable adjustments and how to ask for them
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What to expect in the world of employment and how to prepare
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Food and an opportunity to socialise
When: Wednesday 12th March, 4:00 - 7:30pm
Where: National Children's Bureau, 23 Mentmore Terrace, E8 3PN
Travel costs will be reimbursed.
To sign up click on the link [External Link]
Motor Skills for Home and School Success
We are delighted to invite you to our upcoming parent workshop and training on motor skills for home and school success. Our training will help provide a deeper understanding of motor skills, the developmental stages’ of gross and fine motor skills and the importance of developing these skills in learning and function including self-help skills, independence, confidence and class based activities.
When: Friday 28th February
Book Here: Microsoft Forms [External link]
Information to note:
There will be an opportunity towards the end of the session to break out into small groups to connect with other parents and share your experiences for those who would like to. All attendees will receive completion certificates and resource packs. Refreshments will be provided. Please ensure you have completed the google form document and indicate which sessions you would like to attend. Whether your child has been diagnosed with motor skills differences or you simply want to better understand how you can support your child’s development of their motor skills, this training is for you!
Autism Parent Surgeries
When: Thursday 27th February
Cognus Autism Champion Krishna from the Inclusion Team is offering parents the opportunity to sign up for a 20-minute Teams call to discuss individual cases and to share practical strategies and support. To request a 20 minute Teams call, please email your name, your child's name and school, and your main question to:theautismservice@cognus.org.uk
Creating a communication rich environment Part 1
This training may be appropriate for you if your child is still developing their early language, communication and listening skills, or you would like to learn more about connecting with their world through play.
We will explore how to support your child’s language through the use of practical visuals which you can use during everyday activities. We will also discuss ideas to extend your child’s play and interaction and provide support for you as parents to develop their communication alongside everyday activities.
When: Monday 10th February
Where: First Floor Cantium House Railway Approach Wallington SM6 0DZ
Book your space: Communication rich environments [External Link]
Information to note:
There will be an opportunity towards the end of the session to break out into small groups to connect with other parents and share your experiences for those who would like to. All attendees will receive completion certificates and resource packs. Refreshments will be provided. Please ensure you have completed the google form document and indicate which sessions you would like to attend
Early Years Support Pathway E-book
This guide have been produced to help parents and carers identify and access the support that is available within the community for children under 5 years, with additional needs and/or disabilities.
The guide will share information from a range of service providers and explain how you can access these services. Some of the services in the guide are universal services, whereas others may require referral or be fee paying.
Click here to view the Early Years Support Pathway E-book [External Link].
The Fantastic Freddie Foundation - Valentines Club Night
The Fantastic Freddie Foundation with DJ Patrin presents Valentines Club Night.
When: 22nd February, 7pm
Where: The VBS Community Stadium
Contact Charlie to get your tickets:
Whatsapp: https:/wa.me/447553172864
Email: Charlie@TheFantasticFreddieFoundation.com
Phone: 07553 172864
Contacts Financial Support Checklist
Did you know it costs _3 times more _to raise a disabled child? That’s why it’s vital that these families claim all the financial support they can, but many don’t know what’s available to them.
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Use the Benefits Calculator: Parents can check if they’re claiming everything they’re entitled to by using this online Benefits Calculator [external link] – it takes just 10 minutes and can make a _huge _difference
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Try our Grants Search: The online Grants Search tool [external link] will show parents what charitable funding they could get towards specialist equipment, therapies, home adaptations, white goods and even holidays
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**Get help with household bills: **Take a look at the schemes and grants available [external link] link to help families with water, fuel and other utility bills
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**Look at our energy saving tips: **With disabled families already facing higher energy bills, these practical tips [external link] can help parents cut down on heating, fuel and appliance costs
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Apply for help with extra costs: Our website lists several support schemes [external link] available to help parents with education [external link] , health [external link], and transport and leisure [external link] costs
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**Read our Money Matters guide: **Parents will find detailed advice on benefits, vouchers, discounts, loans and other sources of financial help in our Money Matters guide for England & Wales [external link]
Playwise Support Passport
The PlayWise Support Passport is a comprehensive document intended to aid young people, professionals, service providers and family members in understanding and meeting the unique needs of children and young people with SEND. This document will serve as a valuable tool across various settings, including schools and education providers, holiday and leisure activities, health services and clinics, social care and other support services.
The Support Passport is a personalised document that outlines essential information about a child's support needs, health conditions, learning disabilities, communication preferences, and strategies to facilitate their interactions and experiences. It is designed to ensure that anyone working with a child is well-informed and equipped to provide the best possible support.
Click here to view the Playwise Support Passport [External Link]
Click here to view the Playwise Support Guidelines [External Link]
Parent/Carer Coffee Information Sessions
These are the January to December 2025 Parent/Carer Coffee Information sessions for Sutton families. You do not need an appointment, just turn up!
Carshalton Family Hub and Children's Centre
Session times: 9:30am - 11:30am
When: Friday 24th January
Friday 7th February
Friday 28th February
Friday 14th March
Friday 28th March
Friday 25th April
Friday 9th May
Friday 23rd May
Friday 13th June
Friday 27th June
Friday 11th July
Friday 12th September
Friday 26th September
Friday 10th October
Friday 24th October
Friday 14th November
Friday 28th November
Friday 12th December
Sutton Library Family Hub
Session times: 9:30am - 11:30am
When: Friday 17th January
Friday 31st January
Friday 14th February
Friday 7th March
Friday 21st March
Friday 4th April
Friday 2nd May
Friday 16th May
Friday 6th June
Friday 20th June
Friday 4th July
Friday 18th July
Friday 5th September
Friday 19th September
Friday 3rd October
Friday 17th October
Friday 7th November
Friday 21st November
Friday 5th December
Friday 19th December
Shanklin Community Centre
Session times: 1pm - 2:15pm
When: Monday 13th January
Monday 27th January
Monday 10th February
Monday 24th February
Monday 10th March
Monday 24th March
Monday 28th April
Monday 12th May
Monday 9th June
Monday 23rd June
Monday 7th July
Monday 21st July
Monday 8th September
Monday 22nd September
Monday 6th October
Monday 20th October
Monday 3rd November
Monday 17th November
Monday 1st December
Monday 15th December
Stanley Park Children's Centre
Session times: 9:30am - 11am
When: Wednesday 8th January
Wednesday 22nd January
Wednesday 5th February
Wednesday 26th February
Wednesday 12th March
Wednesday 26th March
Wednesday 2nd April
Wednesday 23rd April
Wednesday 7th May
Wednesday 21st May
Wednesday 4th June
Wednesday 18th June
Wednesday 2nd July
Wednesday 16th July
Wednesday 10th September
Wednesday 24th September
Wednesday 8th October
Wednesday 22nd October
Wednesday 5th November
Wednesday 19th November
Wednesday 3rd December
Wednesday 17th December
The Quad, Green Wrythe Lane, Carshalton SM5 1JW
Session times: 6pm - 8pm
When: Monday 27th January
Monday 24th February
Monday 24th March
Monday 12th May
Monday 9th June
Monday 7th July
Monday 22nd September
Monday 20th October
Monday 17th November
Monday 1st December
Check out the Parent Support Offer
We know that being a parent can be both rewarding and challenging, and we all need a helping hand at times. Knowing where to go and who to turn to can be vital to getting that help early and preventing further escalation.
Our parenting support programmes are a source of support for all parents and carers and offer an opportunity to share parenting experiences, develop a greater understanding of child development, build positive relationships and learn skills to deal with challenging behaviour.
Check out the Parent Support Offer presentation to find out more information [External Link].
Calibre Audio are providing free audiobooks to children and young people under 25 with SEND
Calibre Audio is a national charity, their service makes books and stories accessible to children who find reading print difficult.
Check out their website to find out more information [External Link]
Kinship Roadshow
Meet and share experiences with other kinship carers - family member and friends like you, raising children when their parents are unable to.
Visit our marketplace stalls, where local community organisations will share resources and guidance related to financial and legal support, physical and mental health, and much more.
Join practical workshops to support you in your caring role like:
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Tips for managing contact with family members
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An introduction to trauma and attachment
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Supporting your kinship child at school
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Understand what other support is available locally
Free lunch and refreshments will be provided on the day
Where: Hilton London Croydon, 101 Waddon Way, Purley Way, Croydon, CR9 4HH.
When: Wednesday 26th February, 9:30am - 2:30pm
Visit the Croydon Roadshow website to find out more and book your place [External Link]
Witherslack Group Free Webinar
The Witherslack Group are hosting a free webinar. In this webinar they will discuss how parents of neurodiverse children can effectively and positively support the whole family. It will share insight into the unique needs and experiences of siblings, along with practical ideas for ensuring they receive the support they need.
You can register for your free place on the Witherslack Group page [External Link].
The Autism Project are currently recruiting for their January and September cohort 2025
The Autism Project would like to invite you to attend one of their monthly Zoom information sessions. The sessions are a chance to hear from staff and ask them questions.
When:
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November 29th 2024, 1:00pm
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December 27th 2024, 1:00pm
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January 31st 2025, 1:00pm
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February 28th 2025, 1:00pm
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March 28th 2025, 1:00pm
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April 25th 2025, 1:00pm
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May 30th 2025, 1:00pm
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June 27th 2025, 1:00pm
If you would like to attend then click on the link to register [External Link]
Sutton Independent Travel Training provides new case study of the benefits of travel training
Independent travel training (ITT) with Sutton ITT and KCIL (Kingston Centre for Independent Living) highlights the positive impact of independent travel training on young people with special educational needs and disabilities.
Read the full case study here [External Link].
Independent Travel Training is a free service commissioned by Sutton Council. If you would like to learn more about Independent Travel Training, please visit their website [External Link], or contact the team on itt@kcil.org.uk
Council launches new SEND and Alternative Provision strategy at event for young people
Hundreds of young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in Sutton attended the Council’s third Preparation for Adulthood event on 7 November at Westcroft Leisure Centre.
Preparation for Adulthood forms part of the Council’s new Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and Alternative Provision (AP) Strategy 2024-27 [External Link].
Read the full article on the Council website [External Link].
Blue Light Card for Foster Carers
Are you a foster carer?
Join foster parents and carers from across the country who've signed up to Blue Light Card.
Follow these simple steps:
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Click register
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Select Social Care
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Select Foster Carers
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Enter Foster Carer/Parent in the job title
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Fill out your details
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Upload a picture of your ID card or pay slip*
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Pay just £4.99 for two years
*Please note, your pay slip must be dated within the last three months, clearly showing you are a foster carer.
To sign up, visit the Blue Light Card website [External Link].
New Cognus Website
The new Cognus website is now live! Be sure to explore it and have a look around. You can find out more about Cognus and the services they provide on their website [External Link].
SIASS Social Media
Be sure to keep up to date with all the latest news over at SIASS by visiting their social media pages!
SIASS Facebook [External Link]
SIASS Instagram [External Link]
Hidden Disability lanyards for staff and residents
People with special educational needs and disabilities can now pick up a FREE hidden disability lanyard when they visit the council’s Civic offices or Sutton Central Library.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a simple tool that shows other people that you have a disability or condition that may not be immediately apparent – and that you may need a helping hand, understanding, or more time in shops, at work, on transport, or in public spaces.
Visit YouTube to watch this film [External Link] by the Sutton Parent Carer Forum on hidden disabilities.
Sutton Sports village has SEN Jump Sessions.
A dedicated session for customers with disabilities. Each paying ticket admits one carer free of charge. Additional carer tickets can be purchased using the ‘Additional Carer’ ticket. This session will not be available for the general public. Trampoline park socks must be worn.
Supervision ratios apply for children under 8. These are:
Children under 5 years - 1 adult bouncing to 1 child
Children 5 to 7 years - 1 adult bouncing to 10 children
Children 8 years + - Adult does not need to bounce
Find out more about SEN Jump Sessions on the sports village website [External Link].
ADHD UK - Online Events
ADHD UK offer online events, join one of their events to “Ask an ADHD Coach” any questions you might have.
Up and coming events can be found on the ADHD UK website [External Link].
Ask Sam - Childline Questions Archive
Childline's Ask Sam' service has an archive of questions asked to Childline from children and young people on a range of issues. 'Sam's' responses contain expert replies to these issues, helpful for staff wrestling with what the best answer may be to a child's concerns.
Visit Ask Sam to view the archive [External link].
ZSL London Zoo Community Access Scheme
Sutton Council is taking part in the community access scheme with ZSL London Zoo which allows the Council's people services and voluntary and community sector groups to access discounted tickets to the zoo for the people they work with.
£3 tickets available for :low income families or individuals (proof of eligibility not required when booking via an organisation) and refugees
£6.50 tickets available for people over the age of 60 and may be at risk of isolation and people that have additional needs or disabilities (Free entry for one essential carer per paying disabled visitor).
Fill in the form on the ZSL website to apply [External Link]. Select 'Sutton' for where users are based.
Email communityengagement@zsl.org for more information.
Freecycle Event
Sutton Community Champions are holding a Freecycle event every fortnight on Fridays starting from 21/10/22 at 11-1pm at the Thomas Wall Centre, Benhill Road, Sutton. This is for anyone who is struggling financially at present and needs help. All items are FREE. Please spread the word.
Meet-ups - ADHD Embrace
ADHD Embrace Meet-ups, are hosted by one of their representatives with direct experience of ADHD, are a great way to meet other parents and feel part of a community and share experiences.
Meet-ups may be virtual or in person, please check the individual listing.
Find more information on the ADHD Embrace Meetups on their website [External Link].
Early years Workshops
Contact runs workshops covering topics such as Anxiety, sleep and Toilet Training for parents of children aged 0-5.
Find out about Contact's Early Years Workshops on their website [External Link].
HOPE Study
The Health Outcomes for young People throughout Education’ (HOPE) aims to improve SEND services for better health and wellbeing in children and young people. It is critical that research establishes the current picture of SEND provision in the UK including variation at Local Authority level and how it links to health outcomes in children and young people.
The findings will enable policy makers, service providers, and users to make evidence-informed decisions about who might benefit from SEND provision.
If you would like some more information about the research being completed within Work Package 2, or you would like to express an interest in becoming a participant, please contact the team via the email address provided below.
Email: hope21@medschl.cam.ac.uk
Visit the Health Outcomes for young People throughout Education’ (HOPE) website [External Link].
Free Online Courses for Parents in Sutton
The London Borough of Sutton has invested in a multi-user licence for 4 courses by the Solihull Approach (a national NHS organisation). These courses are relevant for parents of all children, including those with special needs.
Download information about the free online courses for parents on the LBS website [External Link].
THE SENDCAST - Podcast for SEND
The SENDcast has made the shortlist of Learning Ladders’ ‘Best Educational Podcast 2021’ awards. Subscribe and listen to weekly shows [External Link].
Find the right support for children and young people
There’s a large amount of information available from different groups to help support children and young people, which is great but may also be confusing. Sutton CCG has pulled together their preferred links into an ‘emotional well-being resource hub’ to make it easy for children, parents, and anyone supporting a child or young person in Sutton to access the right support.
Access the emotional well-being resource hub [External Link].