SEND Matters CIC was established to provide information, advice, advocacy and practical support to children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and to their parents and carers. During the financial year, the company’s activities benefited the community in the following ways: * Parents and carers were supported to better understand their rights and entitlements under the Children and Families Act 2014, the SEND Code of Practice and related education legislation. * Families received advice and advocacy in relation to Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), annual reviews, requests for EHC needs assessments, school placements, transport, attendance matters and disputes with local authorities. * The company assisted families to access educational provision and support that more accurately reflected the needs of their children and young people, helping to reduce barriers to education and improve outcomes. * Information and guidance were provided to parents who may otherwise have been unable to access professional SEND support due to financial, geographical or practical barriers. * Support was provided to families experiencing significant stress and uncertainty as a result of difficulties accessing appropriate educational provision for their children. * The company promoted awareness and understanding of SEND legislation and processes, empowering parents and carers to participate effectively in decision-making relating to their children’s education. * Through advocacy and support, the company sought to improve access to suitable educational provision, specialist support and educational opportunities for children and young people with SEND. The directors consider that the company’s activities during the financial year have provided a clear community benefit by supporting vulnerable children, young people and families to access appropriate education, understand their legal rights and secure support to meet identified needs.

The company’s principal stakeholders are children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), their parents and carers, educational settings, and professionals involved in supporting children and young people with SEND. The directors have developed the company’s services through ongoing engagement with parents, carers and families seeking support with SEND-related matters. This engagement takes place through direct enquiries, consultations, advocacy work, attendance at meetings, and regular communication with families accessing the company’s services. Feedback from parents and carers has informed the development of the company’s support services and has highlighted common challenges faced by families, including difficulties accessing appropriate educational provision, understanding SEND processes, securing Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), and obtaining suitable support for children and young people with SEND. The company continually reviews the needs and experiences of the families it supports and uses this feedback to ensure its services remain responsive, accessible and focused on addressing barriers faced by children, young people and their families. The directors consider that ongoing engagement with stakeholders has been essential in shaping the company’s activities and ensuring that its services continue to provide a meaningful benefit to the SEND community.

No remuneration was received

No transfer of assets other than for full consideration