Read the feedback we received from you in 2015 and what we did in response.

Parent, August 2015:

It’s reassuring to learn that support is out there but without your help I would still be looking

Parent Feedback session 2015

We met with the Parent Mentoring Service and a parent after she found that some of her friends were not aware of York's Local Offer and the support that is available locally and nationally. Having found it useful she wanted to make sure more people knew about it.

We added her suggestions to our plan to make practitioners, schools and other organisations who work with families aware of the Local Offer. Prior to this meeting, leaflets had been produced and are starting to be sent to schools in York to be given to families via their child's book bags. Leaflets have also been sent to all Children's Centres and Libraries in York. We added to our list the Child Development Centre as suggested by the parent. Westfield feedback session 2015.

Children and parents at Westfield Primary School met to give feedback to the Special Educational Needs (SEN) team about what difference it has made using My Support Plans and Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). The Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) reforms were implemented on September 1. We have now had 6 months experience of using the plans and ensuring children and parents are fully involved in planning for their future. We are gathering children, parent and professional views to find out what is working and what needs to change.

Parents told us:

Changes from before my son had a statement, it's what everyone else put down. We didn't have much part in it. Everything seems better. It is definitely better than before. Before we came home with a piece of paper with targets on. Since the plans everyone has listened - definitely.

My child taking part:

We can say we think they are feeling, when they are involved, they tell us. I got a lump when she brought home part one, as I didn't know she was thinking that. It makes you stronger as a parent as well. It makes you go more forward rather than hold back.

What works well:

Having the professionals listening to me. It can be difficult to persuade people. Now with all in one room, we can all share. You don't feel like you are fighting for people to understand.

What difference does having a My Support Plan make?

Before he had a My Support Plan, he didn't have any help. Having everyone all together made a difference. We had a big meeting and we put it all in place. Now if anyone asks, it is all in one place. Having everyone together they all know things. Everyone knows what is going on.

Before this started, it used to get on top of me, having to tell everyone. Because it's all there on paper, it is concrete. Before there was nothing to see You have to explain the background again. Now it is all on one place. My son was different with different people, this gives the whole picture. It has reduced the stress. The kids feel it from us. If it's all in there you don't worry any more.

What worked well in the meeting?

Everyone listened. Declan began with his film. That worked well it gave everyone an insight into what Declan thinks. What needs to change? Nothing!