Dorset SEND event brings families and services together

Over 170 attendees came along to this year's Dorset Parent Carer Council (DPCC) Big Event, bringing together local SEND services, charities and support organisations under one roof to help families find information, ask questions and make valuable connections. 

Held at Kingston Maurward House in Dorchester, the free event gave parents and carers the opportunity to speak directly with professionals from across education, health, social care, and the voluntary sector. 

Families spoke positively about the chance to have face-to-face conversations with staff and find out more about the support available to them. Many told organisers they left feeling more confident about where to go for help and who to contact when they need advice. 

Some of the comments shared by families after the event include: 

"A very informative and relaxed environment" 

"The best part was Finding out what opportunities there are for school leavers who don’t want to attend “traditional” college" 

"Everyone in one place with a shared common goal" 

"Friendly and welcoming. Useful information." 

The event was organised by the Dorset Parent Carer Council (DPCC), supported by Dorset Council and partners from across the Dorset SEND Partnership. 

A dedicated area focused on the Government's proposed SEND reforms also generated significant interest throughout the day. Families had the opportunity to discuss the proposals in more detail, hear the latest updates, share their experiences and raise questions and concerns directly with representatives from across the partnership. 

Lesley Mellor from Dorset Parent Carer Council said: 

"Many families told us they left feeling heard and understood. There is something made much easier by having conversations in person, where people can take the time to listen, answer questions and build relationships that help families feel more confident and supported." 

Paul Dempsey, Dorset Council's Executive Director for Children's Services, said: 

"Parents and carers have shared how much they value being able to have open and honest conversations, ask questions and build relationships with the people delivering services. The feedback we've received after the event shows just how important these opportunities are in helping families feel informed, supported and connected." 

The Council and its partners recognise that not every family who would have liked to attend was able to do so. Work is already underway to consider future engagement opportunities that could enable more families to get involved, while ensuring there is still a strong presence of staff and professionals available to provide meaningful support and advice on the day. 

Support is available all year round 

The Big Event is just one way families can access information and support. 

Families can: 

• Visit your nearest Family Hub to speak with staff face-to-face and access local support services. 
• Explore Dorset's SEND Local Offer, which brings together information about services, support, activities and advice available across the county
• Sign up to Let's Talk SEND online events to ask questions and hear updates on a wide range of SEND related topics and themes.