Let’s Talk SEND Week is back

Families across Dorset will once again have the opportunity to speak directly with professionals and connect with other families during Let’s Talk SEND Week, which begins on Monday 13 October 2025.

The week is organised by Dorset Council in partnership with Dorset Parent Carer Council, and NHS Dorset. Whether seeking advice, information, or simply a friendly chat, Let’s Talk SEND Week is designed to support families at every stage of their Special Educational Needs and Disability journey.

Main Event: SEND Information Day

Kingston Maurward, DT2 8PY

The week kicks off with an in-person information event at Kingston Maurward on Monday 13 October, from 10am to 1pm.

Families will be able to:

• speak with senior members of the SEND team
• visit stalls hosted by services such as Dorset CAMHS, SEND Travel, Birth to Settled adulthood, SENDIAS and more.
• learn about pathways and resources for young people transitioning into adulthood.
• meet with other families in a relaxed and we

This year’s events will have a special focus on “Preparing for Adulthood”, meaning there will be even more advice and guidance for parents and carers with young people in Year 9 and above.

Event details:

• there is no need to book
• free parking on site, including disabled parking
• free tea and coffee will be provided

Paul Dempsy, Executive Director People, Children's, said:

“Let’s Talk SEND Week is a brilliant opportunity for families to connect with our team in a welcoming and inclusive setting. We’re proud to bring together a wide range of services and professionals, all working together to support families with the challenges they face and help them feel heard, informed, and empowered.”

Local Drop-In Events

In addition to the main information Day, local drop-in sessions will be held across Dorset, giving families the chance to meet their local SEND teams and connect with other families in their area:

Area	Date and time	Venue
Dorchester	Tuesday 14 October, 10am to 12pm	Dorchester Family Hub, DT1 1EE
West Dorset	Tuesday 14 October, 1pm to 3pm	Bridport Family Hub, DT6 5LA
Chesil	Wednesday 15 October, 9:30am to 11:30am	Littlemoor Family Hub, DT3 6AY
East Dorset	Thursday 16 October, time to be confirmed	Wimborne Family Hub, BH21 2AP
North Dorset	Friday 17 October, 10am to 12pm	Blandford Family Hub Network Point, DT11 8SW
Purbeck	Friday 17 October, 1pm to 3pm	Wareham Family Hub, BH20 4PH

 

The week also includes a live online Q&A session on Thursday  17 October at 6pm. Registration is required, and families can sign up at dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/let-s-talk-send

Cllr. Clare Sutton, Dorset Council Cabinet Member for Children Services, Education and Skills, said:

“Navigating SEND can be challenging, and Let’s Talk Week is a brilliant way for families to get answers, meet others in similar situations, and feel supported. I encourage all families to attend if they can.”

Stay Connected

Dorset Council hosts regular online Let’s Talk SEND events, where parents and carers can join virtual Q&A sessions with key SEND professionals. To register, access previous Q&As, or learn more, visit: dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/let-s-talk-send.