Families invited to attend free Dorset SEND information event

Families of children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) are invited to attend a free information event, bringing together local services, support organisations and parent carers from across Dorset.

The Dorset Parent Carer Council (DPCC), supported by Dorset Council and partners from the wider Dorset SEND Partnership, is hosting the ‘Big Event’ on Wednesday 30 September from 10am to 1pm at Kingston Maurward House, Dorchester, DT2 8PY.

The free drop-in event offers parents and carers the opportunity to meet a wide range of organisations that provide support for children and young people with SEND and their families. Attendees can:

• find out about local services
• ask professionals questions
• explore activities and opportunities available across Dorset
• connect with other families in a relaxed setting 

No booking is required.

Organisations attending will include local SEND teams, education, health and social care services, SEND support groups, community organisations, and groups that can give independent advice and guidance, helping families understand the help available at every stage of their SEND journey.

A key feature of this year's event will be a dedicated area focused on the Government's proposed SEND reforms. Families will have the opportunity to learn more about the proposals, discuss what they could mean locally, and share their experiences and views directly with partners from across the Dorset SEND Partnership.

Cllr Clare Sutton, Dorset Council Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education, said:

"We know that at times navigating SEND services can feel overwhelming for families, which is why opportunities like the DPCC Big Event are so important. Bringing together support services, health partners and community organisations in one place makes it easier for families to find information, ask questions and build valuable connections.

Lesley Mellor from Dorset Parent Carer Council added:

"Our Big Event is about bringing families and services together in a walm and welcoming environment. Whether a family is new to SEND or has been accessing support for many years, we want people to leave feeling more informed, connected and confident about the support available in Dorset."

Visitors can also enjoy free tea and coffee, free parking and relaxed spaces for informal conversations.