- Every family's circumstances are different and the type and level of support they need will be too. Adapting to the individual needs and preferences of parents/carers and showing empathy and understanding is important. As one Bury SENCO shared, "it can be a hard journey for some of our families".
- Ensure parents are given the knowledge they need to make informed decisions such as signposting parents/carers to wider services (to find a service contact list and to find out more about services within the Local Authority) and support groups. Parents/carers tell us that this helps them to feel less alone. Having this information readily available in settings is helpful (e.g. information leaflets) Parents/carers may wish to explore social networking groups which provide peer support to parents/carers online.
- Early Help can provide support for parents of children with SEND.
- Parents/carers tell us that having support plans that reflect changes in their children's needs (e.g. between year groups) is very important.
- Parents/carers tell us that it is important to work together to find a compromise wherever possible.
- Asking parents/carers about the kind of support they need is helpful and valued.
She guided us, supported us and made so many logical suggestions for our son that made a tangible difference to his daily living and quality of life through play and activities, that we wouldn’t have thought of ourselves.