Would you like to help shape priorities and SEND services in the Wokingham Borough?
Please join us and other parents to find out more about the projects we are involved with and how you can help.
We will be running 2 sessions on Thursday 16th November:
10.00 - 11.00am via Zoom (booking required - please email participation@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk for the Zoom link)
or
7.30 – 8.30pm at The Elizabeth Room, Radstock Lane Community Centre, Radstock Lane, Earley RG6 5UZ (tea & coffee provided)
For more information please email participation@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
PLEASE NOTE - this training is for those going through the EHCP process for the first time
Are you thinking of applying for an EHCP Needs Assessment, or have you just applied?
This SENDIASS training course will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
The course covers:
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
Please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk to book a place.
This SENDIASS training course will help you to understand what you can expect from a school and how to build a good working relationship so that everyone works together to meet the needs of your child. It will also give you an insight into the different ways of communication and sharing some communication skills that you can use. It is suitable for parents and carers of any child with SEN, both those supported by school and those with EHCPs. The course covers:
• What schools should be doing for children with SEN.
• The graduated approach to meeting a child's needs, from identification of SEND through to an EHC Needs assessment.
• How to communicate effectively with your child's school.
Date: Wednesday 8th November 10.00 – 11.30am
Please email:lnfo@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk to book a place
Please join us virtually for an update with WBC on the Safety Valve Programme, its projects and the planned outcomes for children and their families.
We will be joined by:
Date: Wednesday 8th November 8.00 - 9.30pm
To book a place please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
SEND Voices Wokingham in Partnership with Wokingham Borough Council CAN Network are hosting the Local Offer Live 2023 - Family Information & Fun Day, on Saturday 7th October 2023 at St Crispin's Leisure Centre, London Road, Wokingham RG40 1SR.
Due to overwhelming demand last year we will be running 2 sessions this year, your family can book either a 10.30am - 12.30 morning or 1.00pm - 3.00pm afternoon session ticket.
This event is open anyone living in the Wokingham Borough who has a child or young person aged 0-25 years with any special educational need or disability (SEND), including those who are on waiting lists for diagnoses. It is FREE to attend (please book a ticket for the morning or afternoon session for everyone in your family attending including children & young people).
On the day there will be numerous information stalls where parents and carers can find out more about support, services and activities that are available locally to help families who have a child with SEND. There will also be representative from Wokingham Borough Council SEND Services attending. This year we are also pleased to have a Preparing for Adulthood section for those aged 14years +.
There will also be activities to keep the children entertained including Berkshire Reptile Encounters, face painting, and circus skills with Circus Scene. FREE tea, coffee, squash and cake will also available (and we will be happy to refill your own personal reusable cup or bottle).
TICKET BOOKING:
Tickets are FREE. Please book a morning OR afternoon ticket for everyone attending, including children, the link is here: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/send-voices-wokingh...
Is your child 12 years old or above?
From year 9 at the latest, discussions about your child or young person's support should focus on the support needed to prepare them for adult life, focussing on their strengths and aspirations. This training will increase your awareness of what needs to be considered, enabling you to participate fully in preparations for you child/young person's future.
Preparing for adulthood should focus on 4 key themes:
• Education, training and employment
• Independent living
• Community inclusion
• Good health
The training will explore these themes and also consider:
• What will happen and when
• The importance of the young person's opinions
• Mental capacity
• What to expect from EHCP annual reviews
Date: Monday 2nd October
Time: 7.30 - 9.00pm
Please email:info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk to book a place
Does your child have an EHCP? Do you know what should happen at an annual review? This training will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
The course covers the whole annual review process:
Tuesday 19th September 7.30 - 9.00pm
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
To book please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
Please join us virtually for a chat with WBC’s Early Years Team (for 0-5 year olds). The team advises preschools, nurseries and childminders on all aspects of SEND and will give an update on :
• Early Years services & support available• How to access help and support• Support that is available to your child’s nursery, pre-school or childminder
There will also be an opportunity to ask questions
Date: Monday 3rd JulyTime: 10.00 - 11.00amTo book a place please email: info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk and we will send you the Zoom link. You can find out more about Early Years support on the Local Offer here: Children under 5 with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND)
Is your child 12 years old or above?
From year 9 at the latest, discussions about your child or young person's support should focus on the support needed to prepare them for adult life, focussing on their strengths and aspirations. This training will increase your awareness of what needs to be considered, enabling you to participate fully in preparations for you child/young person's future.
Preparing for adulthood should focus on 4 key themes:
• Education, training and employment
• Independent living
• Community inclusion
• Good health
the training will explore these themes and also consider:
• What will happen and when
• The importance of the young person's opinions
• Mental capacity
• What to expect from EHCP annual reviews
Date: Monday 12th June
Time: 7.30 - 9.00pm
Please email:info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk to book a place
Come and have a drink on us and join us for a chat.
We will have copies of the Local Offer Guide 2022 available which gives information about services, organisations, advice & support for children and young people with Special Educational Needs & Disabilities in the Wokingham Borough.
Members will also be able to collect a Max Card (please remember to bring proof of your child's SEND to collect your max card). More details about the Max Cards and the discounts offered are their website here: MAX CARD
PLEASE NOTE - this training is for those going through the EHCP process for the first time
Are you thinking of applying for an EHCP Needs Assessment, or have you just applied?
This SENDIASS training course will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
The course covers:
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
Please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk to book a place.
Please join us for a Drop-in via Zoom with the SEND Team. You will be able to chat to:
Charlotte Greenbank - SEND Team manager (maternity cover)
Lauren Williams - Assistant Team Manager, Review Team
Brittany Eagle - Assistant Team Manager, Assessment Team
Please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk for the Zoom link to join this session
Does your child have an EHCP? Do you know what should happen at an annual review? This training will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
The course covers the whole annual review process:
Wednesday 3rd May 7.30 - 9.00pm
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
To book please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
We will be hosting 2 workshops with Sophie Kendall (WBC Commissioning Manager, Autism Lead) to develop the Wokingham All Age Autism Strategy, look at the priority areas and help develop an Action Plan.
Workshop 1 - Date TBC, The Woodley Airfield Centre, Hurricane Way, Woodley, RG5 4UX (tea and coffee provided)
Workshop 2 - Date TBC, Via Zoom
Please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk to book a place stating which workshop you would like to attend.
PLEASE NOTE - this training is for those going through the EHCP process for the first time
Are you thinking of applying for an EHCP Needs Assessment, or have you just applied?
This SENDIASS training course will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
The course covers:
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
Is your child 12 years old or above?
From year 9 at the latest, discussions about your child or young person's support should focus on the support needed to prepare them for adult life, focussing on their strengths and aspirations. This training will increase your awareness of what needs to be considered, enabling you to participate fully in preparations for you child/young person's future.
Preparing for adulthood should focus on 4 key themes:
• Education, training and employment
• Independent living
• Community inclusion
• Good health
the training will explore these themes and also consider:
• What will happen and when
• The importance of the young person's opinions
• Mental capacity
• What to expect from EHCP annual reviews
Date: Wednesday 22nd March
Time: 7.30 - 9.00pm
Please email:info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk to book a place
Come and have a drink on us and join us for a chat.
We will have copies of the Local Offer Guide 2022 available which gives information about services, organisations, advice & support for children and young people with Special Educational Needs & Disabilities in the Wokingham Borough.
Members will also be able to collect a Max Card (please remember to bring proof of your child's SEND to collect your max card). More details about the Max Cards and the discounts offered are their website here: MAX CARD
Please join us on Wednesday 8th March for our AGM which will include updates on the Wokingham SEND Innovation & Improvement Programme.
Helen Watson (WBC Interim Director of Children's Services) to talk to families and answer their questions about the progress of the programme.
Please book your place by emailing info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk and we will send you the Zoom link.
During the evening we will also hold the SEND Voices Wokingham AGM to update parent carers on the work we did last year and our plans for next year.
Links to the Agenda for our 2023 AGM and documents from our last AGM are here:.
Does your child have an EHCP? Do you know what should happen at an annual review? This training will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
The course covers the whole annual review process:
Monday 6th March 7.30 - 9.00pm
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
To book please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
Please join us for a Drop-in via Zoom with the SEND Team. You will be able to chat to:
Charlotte Greenbank - SEND Team manager (maternity cover)
Lauren Williams - Assistant Team Manager, Review Team
Brittany Eagle - Assistant Team Manager, Assessment Team
Please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk for the Zoom link to join this session
Please join us for a drop-in and chat.
For link to join please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
PLEASE NOTE - this training is for those going through the EHCP process for the first time
Are you thinking of applying for an EHCP Needs Assessment, or have you just applied?
This SENDIASS training course will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
The course covers:
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
Is your child 12 years old or above?
From year 9 at the latest, discussions about your child or young person's support should focus on the support needed to prepare them for adult life, focussing on their strengths and aspirations. This training will increase your awareness of what needs to be considered, enabling you to participate fully in preparations for you child/young person's future.
Preparing for adulthood should focus on 4 key themes:
• Education, training and employment
• Independent living
• Community inclusion
• Good health
the training will explore these themes and also consider:
• What will happen and when
• The importance of the young person's opinions
• Mental capacity
• What to expect from EHCP annual reviews
Date: Wednesday 7th December
Time: 7.30 - 9.00pm
Please email:info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk to book a place
Comeand have a drink on us and join us for a chat.
We will have copies of the Local Offer Guide 2022 available which gives information about services, organisations, advice & support for children and young people with Special Educational Needs & Disabilities in the Wokingham Borough.
Members will also be able to collect a Max Card (please remember to bring proof of your child's SEND to collect your max card). More details about the Max Cards and the discounts offered are their website here: MAX CARD
Comeand have a drink on us and join us for a chat.
We will have copies of the Local Offer Guide 2022 available which gives information about services, organisations, advice & support for children and young people with Special Educational Needs & Disabilities in the Wokingham Borough.
Members will also be able to collect a Max Card (please remember to bring proof of your child's SEND to collect your max card). More details about the Max Cards and the discounts offered are their website here: MAX CARD
EHCPs - A Parent's Guide SENDIASS Training Course
PLEASE NOTE - this training is for those going through the EHCP process for the first time
Are you thinking of applying for an EHCP Needs Assessment, or have you just applied?
This SENDIASS training course will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
The course covers:
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
SEND Voices Wokingham's Proposal to move to Charitable Incorporated Organisation Status
Thursday 3rd November 2022 @ 8.00 – 9.00pm via Zoom
Our Steering Committee proposed last night that we call an Extraordinary General Meeting with our members to discuss and agree the proposal for SEND Voices Wokingham to move from a Constituted Community Group to Charitable Incorporated Organisation status.
Parent Carer Forums have evolved hugely over the last 12 years. Nationally, most Parent Carer Forums have moved from being a Constituted Community Group (where the Steering Committee is liable for all the finances) to legal entities such as Charities and CiC’s.
Moving to a charity will enable the forum to:
Our core purpose will remain the same, to be:
The Independent voice of families of children with Special Educational Needs & Disabilities, aged 0-25, representing their experiences to improve lives.
Our work, in partnership with Education, Health and Social Care, to make sure the services they commission, plan and deliver meet the needs of children and young people in Wokingham Borough will remain the same. We will continue to listen to families through our events, training courses, consultations and surveys and represent their experiences, views and priorities.
As a member of SEND Voices Wokingham, we invite you to join us on Thursday 3rd November at 8- 9pm via Zoom to hear more about our plans and vote on this change of structure.
Please email: info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk if you have any questions or to book a place and we will send you the Zoom link.
Does your child have an EHCP? Do you know what should happen at an annual review? This training will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
The course covers the whole annual review process:
Wednesday 2nd November 7.30 - 9.00pm
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
To book please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
Helen Watson (WBC Interim Director of Children's Services) will talk to families and answer their questions about the progress of the SEND Innovation & Improvement Programme.
Wednesday 19th October 8.00 – 9.30pm.
Book your place NOW!
email: info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk and we will send you the Zoom link
If you are unable to attend but have any questions that you would like raised, please do email them to us.
Want to know more about the Wokingham SEND strategy 2021 - 2024 and the plan to implement it? You can read the full documents here: WBC SEND Service Updates
Does your child have Special Educational Needs? Do you know what school should do to meet your child's needs? Are you confident about meeting with the school to discuss your child's needs?
This SENDIASS training course will help you to understand what you can expect from a school and how to build a good working relationship so that everyone works together to meet the needs of your child. It will also give you an insight into the different ways of communication and sharing some communication skills that you can use. It is suitable for parents and carers of any child with SEN, both those supported by school and those with EHCPs. The course covers:
• What schools should be doing for children with SEN.
• The graduated approach to meeting a child's needs, from identification of SEND through to an EHC Needs assessment.
• How to communicate effectively with your child's school.
Date: Tuesday 18th October, 10.00 – 12 noon
Please email:lnfo@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk to book a place
SEND Voices Wokingham in Partnership with Wokingham Borough Council CAN Network and Places Leisure are hosting the Local Offer Live 2022 - Family Information & Fun Day, on Saturday 8th October 2022, 11am - 3pm at St Crispin's Leisure Centre, London Road, Wokingham RG40 1SR.
This event is open anyone living in the Wokingham Borough who has a child or young person with any special educational need or disability (SEND), including those who are on waiting lists for diagnoses. It is FREE to attend. On the day there will be numerous information stalls where parents and carers can find out more about support, services and activities that are available locally to help families who have a child with SEND. There will also be representative from Wokingham Borough Council and local charities and service providers.
TICKET BOOKING:
Tickets are FREE. Please book a ticket for everyone attending, including children, the link is here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/wokingham-local-offer-live-2022-family-information-fun-day-tickets-405172230047
EHCPs - A Parent's Guide SENDIASS Training Course
PLEASE NOTE - this training is for those going through the EHCP process for the first time
Are you thinking of applying for an EHCP Needs Assessment, or have you just applied?
This SENDIASS training course will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
The course covers:
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
Come and have a drink on us and join us for a chat.
Sarah and Terri will also be joined by Julie Monahan from SENDIASS.
Members will also be able to collect their Max Card (please remember to bring proof of your child's SEND to collect your max card).
No booking required, just pop in!
Is your child in year 9 or above?
From year 9 at the latest, discussions about your child or young person's support should focus on the support needed to prepare them for adult life, focussing on their strengths and aspirations. This training will increase your awareness of what needs to be considered, enabling you to participate fully in preparations for you child/young person's future.
Preparing for adulthood should focus on 4 key themes:
• Education, training and employment
• Independent living
• Community inclusion
• Good health
the training will explore these themes and also consider:
• What will happen and when
• The importance of the young person's opinions
• Mental capacity
• What to expect from EHCP annual reviews
Date: Monday 27th June
Time: 7.30 - 9.00pm
Please email:info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk to book a place
Does your child have Special Educational Needs? Do you know what school should do to meet your child's needs? Are you confident about meeting with the school to discuss your child's needs?
This SENDIASS training course will help you to understand what you can expect from a school and how to build a good working relationship so that everyone works together to meet the needs of your child. It will also give you an insight into the different ways of communication and sharing some communication skills that you can use. It is suitable for parents and carers of any child with SEN, both those supported by school and those with EHCPs. The course covers:
• What schools should be doing for children with SEN.
• The graduated approach to meeting a child's needs, from identification of SEND through to an EHC Needs assessment.
• How to communicate effectively with your child's school.
Date: Thursday 23rd June Time: 10.00 – 12 noon
Please email:lnfo@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk to book a place
EHCPs - A Parent's Guide SENDIASS Training Course
PLEASE NOTE - this training is for those going through the EHCP process for the first time
Are you thinking of applying for an EHCP Needs Assessment, or have you just applied?
This SENDIASS training course will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
The course covers:
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
To book please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
The long awaited SEND Green Paper has now been published. Does it deliver what parent carers have asked for? Does it go far enough and where are the significant concerns?
SENDIASS will be this Zoom drop-in to explain what it means for families and get your feedback.
You can read more about the SEND Review Green Paper and the feedback from the NNPCF and families here: SEND Review NNPCF response
Date: Monday 13th June
Time: 7.30 - 9.00pm
To book please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
The long awaited SEND Green Paper has now been published. Does it deliver what parent carers have asked for? Does it go far enough and where are the significant concerns?
SENDIASS will be joining our coffee morning to explain what it means for families and get your feedback.
You can read more about the SEND Review Green Paper and the feedback from the NNPCF and families here: SEND Review NNPCF response
Date: Thursday 19th May
Time: 10.00 – 11.30am
Does your child have an EHCP? Do you know what should happen at an annual review? This training will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
The course covers the whole annual review process:
Tuesday 17th May, 10 - 11.30 am
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
To book please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
EHCPs - A Parent's Guide SENDIASS Training Course
PLEASE NOTE - this training is for those going through the EHCP process for the first time
Are you thinking of applying for an EHCP Needs Assessment, or have you just applied?
This SENDIASS training course will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
The course covers:
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
To book please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
Following on from the updates with Carol Cammis, Helen Watson (WBC Interim Director of Children's Services) will talk to families and answer their questions about the progress of the SEND Innovation & Improvement Programme.
Wednesday 4th May 7.30 – 9.00pm.
Book your place NOW!
email: info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk and we will send you the Zoom link
If you are unable to attend but have any questions that you would like raised, please do email them to us.
Want to know more about the Wokingham SEND strategy 2021 - 2024 and the plan to implement it? You can read the full documents here: WBC SEND Service Updates
We are pleased that the review and update on SEND Home to School Transport has now been completed and all the relevant information has been updated on the WBC website. This includes the Assessment & SEND Transport Process, Eligibility Criteria and Application Forms, which can be found here: WBC SEND Transport
We are hosting a session for parents with Dan Robinson from the WBC SEND Team about these updates on:
Date: Wednesday 6th April
Time: 8.00 - 9.00pm
To book please email: info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
We are pleased to be able to host the NEW Preparing for Adulthood SENDIASS Training course via Zoom.
Is your child in year 9 or above?
From year 9 at the latest, discussions about your child or young person’s support should focus on the support needed to prepare them for adult life, focussing on their strengths and aspirations. This training will increase your awareness of what needs to be considered, enabling you to participate fully in preparations for you child/young person’s future.
Preparing for adulthood should focus on 4 key themes:
• Education, training and employment
• Independent living
• Community inclusion
• Good health
the training will explore these themes and also consider:
• What will happen and when
• The importance of the young person’s opinions
• Mental capacity
• What to expect from EHCP annual reviews
This SENDIASS training will give you some advice on how to build a good working relationship so that everyone works together to meet the needs of your child, giving you an insight into the different ways of communication and sharing some communication skills that you can use. It is suitable for parents and carers of any child with SEN, both those supported by school and those with EHCPs.
Tuesday 22nd March 10.00 - 11.30am
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
To book please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
Please join us for an update on Home to School Transport with Dan Robinson (WBC SEND Operation Lead).
This will include an update on:
To book a place please email:info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
WBC are updating their Emotional Health & Wellbeing Strategy. This covers general mental health advice and treatment for less severe problems, mental health promotion, early identification, school & youth services and referral to more specialist services.
They would like to know from parent carers what is working well, where improvements can be made and what would make the service better. Please join us at one of the following sessions to give your feedback and help improve services for children with SEND.
The current Emotional Health & Wellbeing Strategy is here: EHWB Strategy 2018-21
We are running 2 session on Wednesday 9th March either 10 - 11am or 7.30 - 8.30pm (please state which session you would like to join when booking)
To join the either session or if you would like any further information please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
Please join us on Wednesday 2nd March for our AGM which will include updates on the WBC Emotional Health & Wellbeing Strategy and Ordinarily Available Provision.
WBC's Emotional Health & Wellbeing Strategy
This covers general advice and treatment for less severe problems, mental health promotion, early identification, school and youth services and referral to more specialist services.
Ordinarily Available Provision
This sets out the expectations about what provision should be made for the majority of children and young people with SEND, within all education settings.
Please book your place by emailing info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk and we will send you the Zoom link.
During the evening we will also hold the SEND Voices Wokingham AGM to update parent carers on the work we did last year, our plans for next year, and elect the committee for 2022/2023.
Links to the Agenda for our 2022 AGM and documents from our last AGM are here:
Please Please email completed nomination forms to info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
Does your child have Special Educational Needs? Do you know what school should do to meet your child's needs?
This SENDIASS training course will help you to understand what you can expect from a school and how to build a good working relationship so that everyone works together to meet the needs of your child.
The course will cover:
Has your child got and EHCP and starting primary of secondary school in September 22?
The Local Authority must issue the Final EHCP, for primary & secondary school admissions, to parents by the statutory deadline of February 15th.
In Section I of the EHCP, the Local Authority must name the primary or secondary school the child will attend from the upcoming September.
We are hosting a drop-in session with SENDIASS who will be able to give you advice and information and answer your queries and questions about your child’s school placement in September.
Friday 18th February, 10.00 – 11.30am
Does your child have an EHCP? Do you know what should happen at an annual review? This training will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
The course covers the whole annual review process:
Wednesday 16th February, 7.30 - 9.00pm
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
To book please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
EHCPs - A Parent's Guide SENDIASS Training Course
PLEASE NOTE - this training is for those going through the EHCP process for the first time
Are you thinking of applying for an EHCP Needs Assessment, or have you just applied?
This SENDIASS training course will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
The course covers:
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
To book please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
Drop-in session with WBC Short Breaks Team
Join us for an informal Q&A session with David Green and members of the WBC Short Breaks Team to find out more about the Short Breaks service provided by WBC. They will be able to answer your questions on:
.......And more
You can also find out more information about Short Breaks on the WBC website here: WBC Short Breaks
Would you like to find out more about Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunals (SENDIST) and have a chance to ask questions of a SEND legal expert?
SEND Voices Wokingham and Reading Families Forum have invited Adam Otterway Friel, Partner and Head of Education Law of Geldards LLP to talk to us on Thursday, 9th December 2021, 10 am – 12 noon, via Zoom
Adam will be talking to us about what to expect at a SENDIST tribunal including:
* What information parent carers can gather to advocate for your child
* What to expect from the Local Authority Legal Team
* Data Protection: what can the Local Authority ask other professionals when gathering info for their tribunal defence
Followed by a Q&A session.
For enquiries or to book, please email Terri Walsh at info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
Join us for an informal Q&A session with Olenka Hennessey from Wokingham SENDIASS to find out more about the SENDIASS service and impartial advice, guidance and support they offer parent carers. They can help with:
To book please email: info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk and we will send you the Zoom link
You can find out more about how Wokingham SENDIASS can help you here: Wokingham SENDIASS
This SENDIASS training will give you some advice on how to build a good working relationship so that everyone works together to meet the needs of your child, giving you an insight into the different ways of communication and sharing some communication skills that you can use. It is suitable for parents and carers of any child with SEN, both those supported by school and those with EHCPs.
Date: Wednesday 17th November 2021
Time: 7.30 - 9.00pm
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
To book please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
Does your child have an EHCP? Do you know what should happen at an annual review? This training will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
The course covers the whole annual review process:
EHCPs - A Parent's Guide SENDIASS Training Course
For those going through the EHCP process for the first time
Are you thinking of applying for an EHCP Needs Assessment, or have you just applied? This SENDIASS training course will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
The course covers:
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
To book please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
Does your child have Special Educational Needs? Do you know what school should do to meet your child's needs?
This SENDIASS training course will help you to understand what you can expect from a school and how to build a good working relationship so that everyone works together to meet the needs of your child.
The course will cover:
For those going through the EHCP process for the first time
Are you thinking of applying for an EHCP Needs Assessment, or have you just applied? This SENDIASS training course will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
The course covers:
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
To book please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
Does your child have an EHCP and transferring to a new school or college in September 2022? Do you know what should happen at an annual review when your child is going through a phase transfer? This training will help you to understand the process and to participate fully. This course covers the phase transfer annual review process:
PhaseTransfers & Annual Reviews - A Parent’s Guide
Does your child have an EHCPand transferring to a new school or college in September 2022? Do you know whatshould happen at an annual review when your child is going through a phasetransfer? This training will help you to understand the process and toparticipate fully. This course covers the phase transfer annual review process:
Date: Tuesday 29th June 2021
Time: 9.30 – 11.00am
Or
Date: Wednesday 14th July 2021
Time: 7.30 – 9.00pm
This FREE training course for Wokingham Borough parent carers willbe run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
To book please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk. statingwhich session you would like to attend.
Tell us what you think about SEND Provision for your child?
The WBC SEND Sufficiency Project is reviewing all the SEND provision and services used by Wokingham's Children 0- 25 years both in and out borough and how it is meeting the needs of children and young people. The project will produce a report with recommendation for the next 5 years in September 2021.
To help with this project we are holding a focus groups to hear what parents of children with SEND who attend a special school, either in Wokingham Borough or in another borough, think is working well and what can be improved with all SEND provision and services for local families. We will be joined by Richard Tipping, a consultant working for WBC on this project.
We will also be running a session for parents whose children/young people attend a mainstream school either in or out of borough on Monday 5th July 8-9pm.
To book please email: info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
If you are unable to attend we would still like to hear your views by completing this short survey: WBC SEND Sufficiency Survey 2021
Tell us what you think about SEND Provision for your child?
The WBC SEND Sufficiency Project is reviewing all the SEND provision and services used by Wokingham's Children 0- 25 years both in and out borough and how it is meeting the needs of children and young people. The project will produce a report with recommendation for the next 5 years in September 2021.
To help with this project we are holding a focus groups to hear what parents of children with SEND who attend a mainstream school, either in Wokingham Borough or in another borough, think is working well and what can be improved with all SEND provision and services for local families. We will be joined by Richard Tipping, a consultant working for WBC on this project.
We will also be running a session for parents whose children/young people attend a Special School parents either in or out of borough on Thursday 8th July 8-9pm.
To book please email: info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
If you are unable to attend we would still like to hear your views by completing this short survey: WBC SEND Sufficiency Survey 2021
PhaseTransfers & Annual Reviews - A Parent’s Guide
Does your child have an EHCPand transferring to a new school or college in September 2022? Do you know whatshould happen at an annual review when your child is going through a phasetransfer? This training will help you to understand the process and toparticipate fully. This course covers the phase transfer annual review process:
Date: Tuesday 29th June 2021
Time: 9.30 – 11.00am
Or
Date: Wednesday 14th July 2021
Time: 7.30 – 9.00pm
This FREE training course for Wokingham Borough parent carers willbe run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
To book please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk. statingwhich session you would like to attend.
Following on from our AGM Question Time, Carol Cammiss (WBC Director of Children's Services) will talk to families and answer their questions about the progress of the SEND Innovation & Improvement Programme.
Tuesday 29th June 2021, 8.00 – 9.00pm.
Carol will also be joined by:
Sal Thirlway (AD Children's Services)
Dan Robinson (SEND Operational Lead)
Matthew Booth (SEND Innovation & Improvement Programme Lead)
Book your place NOW!
email: info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk and we will send you the Zoom link
Does your child have Special Educational Needs?
Do you know what school should do to meet your child's needs?
Are you confident about meeting with the school to discuss your child's needs?
This SENDIASS training course will help you to understand what you can expect from a school and how to build a good working relationship so that everyone works together to meet the needs of your child.
The course will cover:
This FREE training course will be run by Julie Monahan from SENDIAS and will last approx. 1 hour.
Venue: via Zoom. Please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk to book you place (spaces limited to 8 participants)
Date: Thursday 10th June 2021
Time: 11.30am - 12.30pm
For those going through the EHCP process for the first time
Are you thinking of applying for an EHCP Needs Assessment, or have you just applied? This SENDIASS training course will help you to understand the process and to participate fully. The course covers:
(Please note, this training is not suitable if your child already has an EHCP)
Date: Tuesday 25th May 2021
Time: 10.00– 11.30am
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
Does your child have an EHCP? Do you know what should happen at an annual review? This training will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
The course covers the whole annual review process:
Date: Wednesday19th May 2021
Time: 8.00– 9.00pm
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
To book please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk stating which course you would like to attend.
This SENDIASS training will give you some advice on how to build a good working relationship so that everyone works together to meet the needs of your child, giving you an insight into the different ways of communication and sharing some communication skills that you can use. It is suitable for parents and carers of any child with SEN, both those supported by school and those with EHCPs.
Date: Wednesday 12th May 2021
Time: 10.30 – 11.30am
This FREE training courses for Wokingham Borough parent carers will be run by Julie Monahan and the team from Wokingham SENDIASS via Zoom.
To book please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk stating which course you would like to attend.
Please join us on Wednesday 10th March for our AGM, an update on the new 0-25 SEND Strategy and Question Time with panel representing Education, Health and Social Care.
Please book your place by emailing info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk and we will send you the Zoom link
Please submit any questions for the panel by Wednesday 3rd March be email to info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
The panel will be:
Sal Thirlway - WBC Assistant Director Children's Services & Chair of the SEND Implementation Board, WBC
Sally Murray- Head of Children's Commissioning & Designated Clinical Officer for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (0-25), NHS Berkshire West CCG
Karen Cridland - Director Children, Young People & Family Services (CYPF) Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Kelli Scott - Service Manager, Children with Disabilities & Early Help, WBC
We are also pleased to be joined by:
Matthew Booth (Consultant), who has led on the development of the new 0-25 SEND Strategy and now its implementation and will give a brief update on this work.
Dan Robinson (Consultant), who is leading on the update and rollout of the Ordinarily Available and SEND Team process improvements.
During the evening we will also hold the SEND Voices Wokingham AGM to update parent carers on the work we did last year, our plans for next year, and elect the committee for 2021/2022.
Links to the Agenda for our 2021 AGM and documents from our last AGM are here:
Are you interested in joining our steering committee? Nomination forms can be found here: SVW Nomination form
Draft Minutes from 2020 AGM for approval
Chair's Report 2020/21 - to follow
Treasurer's Report 2020/21 - to follow
Does your child have Special Educational Needs?
Do you know what school should do to meet your child's needs?
Are you confident about meeting with the school to discuss your child's needs?
This SENDIASS training course will help you to understand what you can expect from a school and how to build a good working relationship so that everyone works together to meet the needs of your child.
The course will cover:
This FREE training course will be run by Julie Monahan from SENDIAS and will last approx. 1.5 hours.
Venue: via Zoom. Please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk to book you place (spaces limited to 8 participants)
Date: Wednesday 3rd March
Time: 8.00 - 9.30pm
SENDIASS Training Course - EHCP Annual Reviews – A Parent's Guide
Does your child have an EHCP? Do you know what should happen at an annual review? This training will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
The course covers the whole annual review process:
· What should happen before the meeting
· How to give my views and help my child to give their views
· What will happen at the meeting?
· What will happen after the meeting?
· How to check my draft amended plan if the plan needs changing.
This FREE webinar training course will be run by Julie Monahan from SENDIASS and will last approx. 1.5 hours. There will be the opportunity for participants to ask questions at intervals throughout the webinar.
Venue: via Zoom
Please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk to book you place (spaces limited to 8 participants)
Date: Tuesday 9th February
Time: 10.00– 11.30 am
EHCP Training - A Parent's Guide
Are you thinking of applying for an EHCP Needs Assessment, or have you just applied? This SENDIASS training course will help you to understand the process and to participate fully. The course covers:
• What is an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP)and when would you need one?
• Who can apply for an assessment for an EHCP and how?
• The assessment process
• The draft EHCP
• Choosing a school
(Please note, this training is not suitable if your child already has an EHCP, SENDIASS also regularly run a training course on the EHCP Annual Review Process)
This FREE webinar training course will be run by Julie Monahan from SENDIASS and will last approx. 1 ½ hours. There will be the opportunity for participants to ask questions at intervals throughout the session.
Venue: via Zoom. Please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk to book your place (spaces limited to 8 participants)
Time: 8.00 - 9.30pm
Outcome Measures for the new SEND Strategy
The Ordinarily Available Document
(the provision Wokingham Borough Council expects to be available for children with SEND in mainstream education)We are currently working with WBC to update the Ordinarily Available document. This is a document which sets out what provision the local authority expects to be made available for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and/or disabilities in all mainstream educational settings i.e. the SEN Support that is available in mainstream schools, colleges and early years settings. They would like to get feedback from parents on this draft document to ensure that it is fit for purpose and works for families.
To collect parents feedback we are running a focus group for parents via Zoom.
Date: WEDNESDAY 2nd DECEMBER at 10.30 - 11.30 am
Please email us on info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk if you would like to join and we will send you a copy of the draft document to read before the focus group along with joining instructions.
Alternatively, if you would be willing to feedback comments to us via email or would like to discuss with Dan Robinson, the consultant working on writing this document, on a 1:1 basis this can also be arranged. Again please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk if you would like more information or would like to be involved.
EHCP Training - A Parent's Guide
Are you thinking of applying for an EHCP Needs Assessment, or have you just applied? This SENDIASS training course will help you to understand the process and to participate fully. The course covers:
• What is an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP)and when would you need one?
• Who can apply for an assessment for an EHCP and how?
• The assessment process
• The draft EHCP
• Choosing a school
(Please note, this training is not suitable if your child already has an EHCP, SENDIASS also regularly run a training course on the EHCP Annual Review Process)
This FREE webinar training course will be run by Julie Monahan from SENDIASS and will last approx. 1 ½ hours. There will be the opportunity for participants to ask questions at intervals throughout the session.
Venue: via Zoom. Please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk to book your place (spaces limited to 8 participants)
Time: 7.30– 9.00 pm
Wokingham Borough Council are currently consulting on both their updated Home to School and Post 16 Transport Policies. Further details can be found on Wokingham Borough Council website here: https://www.wokingham.gov.uk/news-and-consultation....
The consultation closes on 6th November.
SEND Voices Wokingham are holding an on-line focus groups with parent carers to discuss the proposed updates to these policies. If you would be interested in joining this focus group please email us for the link: info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
Wednesday 14th October 2020 10.30am – 11.30am via Zoom
SENDIASS Training Course - EHCP Annual Reviews – A Parent's Guide
Does your child have an EHCP? Do you know what should happen at an annual review? This training will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
The course covers the whole annual review process:
· What should happen before the meeting
· How to give my views and help my child to give their views
· What will happen at the meeting?
· What will happen after the meeting?
· How to check my draft amended plan if the plan needs changing.
This FREE webinar training course will be run by Julie Monahan from SENDIASS and will last approx. 1 hour. There will be the opportunity for participants to ask questions at intervals throughout the webinar.
Venue: via Zoom
Please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk to book you place (spaces limited to 8 participants)
Date: Wednesday14th October 2020
Time: 10.30– 11.30 am
We will also be hosting the following SENDIASS Training courses later this term (all via Zoom)
Home to School Transport Q&A session with SEND and Corporate Transport Teams
Date:Thursday 27th August
Time: 11 am – 12 noon
Via: Microsoft Teams - please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk for an invite to join the session.
You may hYou may have seen in the Wokingham Borough News that we were planning a Drop-In/Craft Session on Sunday 29th March @ Wokingham Masonic Hall. We are sorry but due to the current situation we are having to postpone this. We will rearrange this session as soon as we can, however we would like to invite you to a ……..Virtual Meet-Up
We have spaces for 25 people to join us for an online meet-up. If you would like to join us please email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk for more details and an invitation to join the meet-up. You can access the Meet-Up via PC, tablet or smartphone wherever you are.
This is the first time we are trying a large group meet-up this way, so please bear with if there are a few teething problems.
SEN Support In School Training - A Parent's Guide
Ticket Booking here: SEN Support Training
SENDIASS have developed 3 new training course for Wokingham Borough parents and we are pleased to be hosting this first set for them.
This training will help you to understand what you can expect from a school and how to build a good working relationship so that everyone works together to meet the needs of your child.
The course will cover:
This FREE training course will be run by Julie Monahan from SENDIASS and will last approx 2 hours. After the training course SEND Voices Wokingham will be offering a buffet lunch and a chance to feedback on the training course and also other areas that we are working on with Education, Health and Social Care as part of the work following the OFSTED/CQC Local Area SEND Inspection. We do hope that you will be able to stay and chat with us after the training course.
Book your FREE ticket via Eventbrite: SVW AGM
Sal Thirlway, WBC Assistant Director Children's Services & Kelli Scott, WBCService Manage, Children with Disabilities, will update parents on the progress made following the Local Area SEND Inspection in March 2019.
A hot buffet, tea and coffee will be available from 7.30 - 7.45pm (please advise us of any special dietary requirements by emailing info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk)
During the evening we will also hold the SEND Voices Wokingham AGM to update parent carers on the work we did last year, our plans for next year, and elect the committee for 2020/21. Links to the Agenda for our 2020 AGM and documents from our last AGM are here:
Are you interested in joining our steering committee? Nomination forms can be found here: SVW Nomination form
Draft Minutes from 2019 AGM for approval
Annual Reviews Training - A Parent's Guide
Ticket Booking here - Annual Review Training
More details to follow on course content, however please note, this training is only suitable if your child/young person already has an EHCP.
The training course will be run by Julie Monahan and will last approx 2 hours. After the training course SEND Voices Wokingham will be offering a buffet lunch (please let us know if you have any dietary requirements) and a chance to feedback on the training course and also other areas that we We do hope that you will be able to stay and chat with us after the training course.
For further information email:info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
SENDIASS have developed 3 new training course for parents and we are pleased to be hosting this first set for them.
Education Health and Care Plans: A Parent's Guide. Ticket Booking Here: EHCP Training
Are you thinking of applying for an EHCP Needs Assessment, or have you just applied? This training will help you to understand the process and to participate fully.
This course will cover:
• What is an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and when would you need one?
• Who can apply for an assessment for an EHCP and how?
• The assessment process.
• The draft EHCP
• Choosing a school
Please note, this training is not suitable if you have already got an EHCP. Please see details of the Annual Review training instead.
This FREE training course will be run by Julie Monahan from SENDIASS and will last approx 2 hours. After the training course SEND Voices Wokingham will be offering a buffet lunch and a chance to feedback on the training course and also other areas that we are working on with Education, Health and Social Care as part of the work following the OFSTED/CQC Local Area SEND Inspection. We do hope that you will be able to stay and chat with us after the training course.
Please join us for tea or coffee, cake and a chat.
We will also be joined by Julie Monahan from SENDIASS. Julie is currently developing a SENDIASS website and would love to get your thoughts and feedback on the what they have developed to date.
You will also be able to pick up Max Cards for us at this event.
No need to book, just turn up, we hope to see you there.
Parents and Carers of children with SEND have times when they want to present their thoughts and ideas to others so that they can help achieve what's best for their child. This may also include representing their child's point of view and the views of other families with disabled children.
Would you like to;
During this FREE workshop we will focus on developing personal confidence to share information in a way that makes it easier for others to relate to what you are sharing and understand how they can help.
Venue: Woodley Airfield Youth Centre, Hurricane Way, Woodley, RG5 4UX
To book email: info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
Come along and have a chat and a tea/coffee and tell us your experiences. There will also be a Christmas craft session for the kids run by Creative Minds, who you may have met at our Local Offer Live event in October
Members can also pick up their FREE Max Card*.
Date: Saturday 30th November
Time: 10.00am - 12.00 noon
Venue: Wokingham Masonic Centre, 7 Reading Road, Wokingham, RG41 1EG
Please remember to bring PROOF of your child's SEND as this will be required to collect a Max Card.
More information about the Max Card and where it can be used can be found on their website: www.mymaxcard.co.uk.
SEND Voices Wokingham are hosting an IPSEA Foundation SEND law training session for Wokingham Borough Parent carers. This training will provide parent carers of children & young people with all types of special educational needs and/or disability (SEND) with an introduction to the law relating to the education & training of children & young people with SEND.
Summary: This one day introductory level course is aimed specifically at parents and aims to provide them with an overview of the law relating to children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (“SEN"). The course will provide information on the law, guidance, policy and practice and but also aims to show parents how they can begin to use the law to gain support for their child with SEN.The course relates to the law as it applies in England. This is a condensed one day course specifically tailored to parent groups and is delivered during school friendly hours.
More details of the course content can be found on the IPSEA website here: IPSEA SEND Training
You do not need any previous knowledge of SEND Law, but must be the parent carer of a child aged 0-25 years with SEND and live in the Wokingham Borough.
SEND Voices Wokingham are pleased to be able to offer this course at a highly subsidised cost of £10 per person which will include a buffet lunch & refreshments. IPSEA do offer this training courses to parent carers in their London office costing £65 and excluding train fare. The day will run between 9.30am and 2.45pm (registration from 9.15 am)
Parking is available opposite the centre at the Headley Road pay & display car park, or at Woodford Park Leisure Centre (off Haddon Drive) free of charge, a short walk through the park to The Oakwood Centre
Maximum number of places available on the course is 35, so booking is essential. Priority will be given to parent carers who did not attend our last course (under our old name of REACH Wokingham) in February 2018.
To book a place and for payment details please email: info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk
SEND Voices Wokingham (formerly REACH Wokingham) in Partnership with Wokingham Borough Council CAN Network and Places Leisure are hosting the Local Offer Live 2019 - Family Information & Fun Day, on Saturday 12th October 2019, 11am - 3pm at St Crispin's Leisure Centre, London Road, Wokingham RG40 1SR. This event has previously been know as the CAN Day.
This event is open anyone living in the Wokingham Borough who has a child or young person with any special educational need or disability (SEND), including those who are on waiting lists for diagnoses. It is FREE to attend. On the day there will be numerous information stalls where parents and carers can find out more about support, services and activities that are available locally to help families who have a child with SEND. There will also be representative from Wokingham Borough Council CAN Network, ASSIST, SEN and DCT attending as well as CAMHS from Health.
Your FREE ticket can be booked here: LOL 2019. Please book a ticket for everyone from your family attending, including children/young people.
There will also be activities to keep the children entertained including Quirks Animal Roadshow, martial arts (timings TBC), face painting, trampolines*, bouncy castle*, sports activities*, and a climbing wall* (* there will be a booking system available on the day for these activities and availability will be limited). Tea, coffee, squash and cake will also available (and we will be happy to refill your own personal reusable cup or bottle).
Keep up to date with what is happening on the day via our Facebook page: SendVoicesWokingham
Saturday 20/7/19 at Our House BFTF, Toutley Rd, Wokingham RG41 1QN. 11-1pm (physical disability session) 3 - 5 PM (ASD session)
Please remeber to bring your childs proof of disability
Max Card collection and registration evening this Wednesday 17th July, 7-9pm at The Acorn Community Centre, (meeting room 3), Fernlea Dr, Woosehill, Wokingham RG41 3DR (behind Morrisons). Don't forget to bring proof of disability. Sarah and Terri will look forward to meeting you there!
Helen will be at the ASD family Help Coffee Morning on Monday 15th from 10.30 - 12 and then Sarah will be at the same venue from 12.30 - 2.30pm during the ASSIST drop in.
Location - Woodley Airfield Youth Centre, Hurricane Way, Woodley, RG5 4UX
Come along to our membership day on Saturday 29th June, 2.00 –4.00pm at Woodford Park Leisure Centre, Haddon Drive, RG5 4LY. Find out more about what SEND Voices Wokingham do, sign up for membership and collect your FREE Max Card*
Membership to SEND Voices Wokingham is FREE and open to any parent carer living in the Wokingham Borough who has a child aged 0-25 years old with ANY Special Educational Need or Disability. Members will receive email updates on events, training courses, consultations,surveys and information. All member will also receive a FREE Max Card*. Proof of your child's SEND will be required to collect your card. Full details on our information sheet:Max Card Information sheet. or you can email info@sendvoiceswokingham.org.uk for more information.
Already a members (including members of REACH Wokingham)? You can also collect your Max Cards on 29th June. Max Cards will also be available at other SEND Voices Wokingham events throughout the year. Dates of these will be advertised on our website and social media.
*The Max Card is the UK's leading discount card for foster families and families of children with additional needs age 0-19. Families can use their Max Card at venues across the UK to get free or discounted admission http://www.mymaxcard.co.uk/. Proof of SEND will be requested to collect your Max Card. (proof can include EHCP, DLA, diagnosis letter, Blue Badge, letter from health or social care professional, letter from education. If you don't have any of these, we have a Proof of SEND form, which you can get signed by health, education or social care professional)
Please join us for tea or coffee, cake and a chat.
We will be joined by Kate Egginton, the Associate Director of Nursing – Children & Young People at the Royal Berkshire Hospital. Kate would love to hear from parents about communication between the hospital and young people what is working and how things can be improved.
No need to book, just turn up and share your experience
REACH Wokingham are very pleased to host Steve Broach. Steve is a public lawyer who advises and represents individuals, charities, companies and public authorities. He has particular interest and expertise in health, education and social care, with a focus on disability and children's rights cases. Steve has successfully challenged a number of funding cuts to public services in recent cases involving West Berkshire (short breaks for disabled children), Bristol (special educational needs provision) and Northamptonshire (libraries). More information about Steve can be found here: Steve Broach
In this training session Steve will cover the key legal duties in relation to health, education and social care for children and young people aged 0-25. Issues covered will include social care assessments and rights to short breaks and other services, Education Health and Care needs assessments and plans and the rights of children with complex health needs. Steve will also cover broader issues of general relevance, such as discrimination law and duties around fair consultation.
This FREE session is very interactive and there will be lots of opportunities for people to ask general questions, although Steve cannot advise on individual cases during the training. You do not need any previous knowledge of SEND Law, but MUST BE the parent carer of a child/young person aged 0-25 years with SEND and live in the Wokingham Borough.
Tickets MUST BE booked in advance via Eventbrite: Steve Broach: The Law in a Day
A buffet lunch will be provided. Please email Terri at reachwokingham@hotmail.co.uk if you have any dietary requirements.
Wokingham Borough Council are currently consulting on their new draft strategy for supporting children & young people with special educational needs & disabilities (SEND) 2019-2022.
Please book your FREE place by Monday 25th February on the Eventbrite link here: REACH Wokingham AGM 2019 or by emailing: reachwokingham@hotmail.co.uk.
Come to our evening drop in and discuss important matters
No need to book, just come along to this FREE event today.
St Paul's Parish Rooms, St Paul's Church, London Road, Wokingham RG41 1EH
It’s nearly here…….the Local Offer Live 2018 Family Information & Fun Day. We are looking forward to seeing you on Saturday and just wanted to share some information about the day.
The following INFORMATION STANDS are planning to attend:
Parenting Special Children, Healthwatch, Wokingham, Bracknell & Districts Mencap, Peapods, Me 2 Club, Optalis, CAN Network, ASSIST, DCT/Bridges, Special Educational Needs (SEN) Service, ASD Family Help, Dingley’s Promise, SportsAble, SEND carers United, Camp Mohawk, REACH Wokingham, SENDIASS , Berkshire Deaf Children’s Society, REMAP, CAMHS , RADIS Community Care, Berkshire Carers Hub, Voyage Care, New Hope Academy plus a stand with information from providers who are not able to attend in person.
More details about the services that each of the stand holders provide can be found on our website link: Providers Information
A layout of St Crispins Leisure Centre and what can be found where is also available on our website link here: St Crispins Layout
FOR THE CHILDREN
Trampolines and bouncy castle (a booking system will operate for both these activities), face painting, climbing wall (outside), Lu’s Owls (outside 11am – 2pm), tennis (outside 11 am – 3 pm), sports (outside), creche open to all ages, (this year moved to much larger room, Studio 1, 11am – 3 pm) and hopefully the fire engine! We will also have a small quiet room this year for anyone who needs some time out.
A collection of photos showing what will be at the Local Offer Live can be found on our website link : What will be at the Local Offer Live?
REFRESHEMENTS
Teas, coffees, squash and cake will be available. Please feel free to bring a packed lunch with you.
Local Offer Live 2018
Once again REACH Wokingham in Partnership with Wokingham Borough Council CAN Network are hosting the Local Offer Live – Family Information & Fun Day, on Saturday 22nd September 2018, 11.00am – 4.00pm at St Crispins Leisure Centre, Wokingham. This event has previously been know as the Children with Additional Needs (CAN) Day.
As always there will be lots of activities to keep the children entertained including Lu’s Owls, trampolining, bouncy castle, face painting, tennis and climbing wall. This event is FREE of charge. Tickets are available on Eventbrite: Local Offer Live 2018 or emailing reachwokingham@hotmail.co.uk. Please book a ticket for each person in your family attending.
Also there will be lots of information stalls where you can find out more about services, support and activities that are available locally as well as members of Wokingham Borough Council on hand to answer your questions.
This event is open to anyone living in the Wokingham Borough who has a child or young person with a special educational need or disability, you do not have to be a member of REACH Wokingham or the CAN Network to come along, so please feel free to pass this on to others who may want to come.
Please join us for tea or coffee, cake and a chat.
No need to book, just turn up and share your experience with other parents in the borough.
We are particularly keen to hear about your Short Breaks experiences over the summer holidays.
David Green (Short Breaks Manager WBC) is planning to join us to answer your questions.
We know that the Local Area OFSTED inspection is likely to happen in the next few months. We want to ensure that we collect the views of as many parents as possible so that when OFSTED come, even if you cannot make it to the actual OFSTED meetings, we know your experiences and views. Therefore we invite parent carers of children with SEND in the Wokingham borough to come along and share their views on the SEND services provided by the council, health and education in the borough.
Steve Nyakatawa (SEN/Inclusion Transformation Consultant for Wokingham Borough Council) will talk about the SEND Local Area (OFSTED) Inspection and share the headlines from their SEND self-evaluation (how well they think they are doing)
A sandwich & fries buffet , tea and coffee will be available from 7.30 – 7.45pm (please advise us of any special dietary requirements)
Please book your FREE place by Monday 19th February on the Eventbrite link here: Consultation on SEND Services or by emailing: reachwokingham@hotmail.co.uk.
REACH Wokingham – IPSEA Foundation SEND law training session for parent carers
at the Oakwood Centre, Headley Road, Woodley, RG5 4JZ
on Thursday 1st February 2018, 9.30 am – 2.30 pm.
REACH Wokingham are hosting an IPSEA Foundation SEND law training session for Wokingham Borough Parent carers. This training will provide parent carers of children & young people with all types of special educational needs and/or disability (SEND) with an introduction to the law relating to the education & training of children & young people with SEND.
Summary: This one day introductory level course is aimed specifically at parents and aims to provide them with an overview of the law relating to children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (“SEN”). The course will provide information on the law, guidance, policy and practice and but also aims to show parents how they can begin to use the law to gain support for their child with SEN.The course relates to the law as it applies in England. This is a condensed one day course specifically tailored to parent groups and is delivered during school friendly hours.
More details of the course content can be found on the IPSEA website here: IPSEA SEND Training
You do not need any previous knowledge of SEND Law, but must be the parent carer of a child aged 0-25 years with SEND and live in the Wokingham Borough.
REACH Wokingham are pleased to be able to offer this course at a highly subsidised cost of £10 per person which will include a buffet lunch & refreshments. IPSEA do offer this training courses to parent carers in their London office costing £65 and excluding train fare. The day will run between 9.30am and 2.30pm.
Parking is available opposite the centre at the Headley Road pay & display car park, or at Woodford Park Leisure Centre (off Haddon Drive) free of charge, a short walk through the park to The Oakwood Centre
Maximum number of places available on the course is 35, so booking is essential. To book a place and for payment details please email: reachwokingham@hotmail.co.uk
Once again REACH Wokingham in Partnership with Wokingham Borough Council CAN Network are hosting the Local Offer Live – Family Information & Fun Day, on Saturday 30th September 2017. This event has previously been know as the Children with Additional Needs (CAN) Day.
As always there will be lots of activities to keep the children entertained including Quirk’s Animal Roadshow, trampolining, bouncy castle, sports activities and a climbing wall as well as a crèche. The event is FREE of charge. Tickets are available on Eventbrite: Local Offer Live 2017. Please book a ticket for each person in your family attending.
Also there will be lots of information stalls where you can find out more about services and activities that are available locally as well as members of Wokingham Borough Council giving an update on the new Short Breaks Statement and introduction of direct payments.
This event is open to anyone living in the Wokingham Borough who has a child or young person with a special educational need or disability, you do not have to be a member of REACH Wokingham or the CAN Network to come along, so please feel free to pass this on to others who may want to come.
