Let’s Talk SEND!

In this episode, we bring together local and regional voices to explore SEND reform, with a focus on co-production and the people at the heart of the system. We discuss the work of the Regional Improvement and Innovation Alliance, the importance of sharing effective practice, and challenge the common narrative that "the system is broken", asking whether the reality is more complex than that.

In this episode, we're joined by Harriet Snowden (Hattie), who starts by explaining her impressively long job title and what her role actually involves day to day.

We explore a range of fascinating topics, including how Hattie's own personal experiences have shaped the way she approaches her work. We also discuss whether we sometimes overlook the importance of addressing the most basic aspects of children's physical health, and why these seemingly simple issues can have such a significant impact on their wellbeing.

In this episode we have a brilliant chat with Jenny Higham, Manager of the Early Years Support Team.  

We talk about why investing in Early Years is so important, what families can do if they have concerns about their children's development and loads more.

In this episode we talk to Laura and Jo and discuss what it's really like living in Bedford Borough with children with additional needs. We also chat about their time in the Parent Carer Forum and discuss how things have changed over the years they've been involved.

In this episode Hayley and Kerri talk about the role of the engagement and development team at the council and how they try to give young people the space to be able to share their experiences and needs whilst building meaningful relationships. 

In this episode, we're joined by Chris and Heather and discuss early help, family support and parent groups. We discuss some of the barriers parent might have to access support and whether some of the way we discuss 'parent courses' or 'workshops' make it harder for parents to get involved.

In this latest episode, we sit down with Jo Meehan, Associate Director of CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services).

Jo shares insight into her role, explains how young people and families can access support, and discusses the current mental health landscape across Bedfordshire. It’s an open and informative conversation that helps demystify CAMHS and the support available.

Tune in to learn more about how services are evolving and where to turn if you or someone you know needs help.

In this episode, Kerri sits down with Terri to explore SENDIASS — the Bedford Borough Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Information, Advice and Support Service.

SENDIASS offers a free, impartial and confidential service for parents and carers of children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities. From navigating the education system to understanding your rights, their support can make a real difference.

Tune in to learn more about the service, how it can help you, and where to turn for trusted guidance. If you’d like further information, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

In this episode, Kerri chats with Jordan about special educational needs and disabilities, the realities of navigating the school system, and Jordan’s advice and encouragement for families of children with medically complex needs who may be feeling isolated.

Tim oversee's many services across Bedford Borough and talks with Kerri in this episode about working with parents and schools, the importance of communication and the current strengths and challenges in the SEND system. 

Tim and Kerri also talk about the increasingly adversarial and legal components of SEND and the challenges this brings.