Schools White Paper – Family Engagement Session

The Government has recently published the Schools White Paper: Every Child Achieving and Thriving (23 February 2026). This sets out proposed changes to both the schools system and the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) system in England. These proposals are now open for national consultation until 18 May 2026.

We understand that announcements like these can cause uncertainty for families of children and young people with SEND. Please be reassured that nothing about the support you currently receive will change at this stage.

To help keep families informed, the Southend SEND Area Partnership invites you to an in‑person information session on:

Friday 17 April 2026
Southend Civic Centre (Jubilee Room)
9.30am to 10.30am

You can find out more and book your place on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/send-reform-family-engagement-session-tickets-1984132522787?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true

What to expect in the session

This session builds on the ongoing awareness work across Southend and provides a welcoming space for families to share their thoughts on the proposed changes. Together, we want to ensure your voices are represented clearly and confidently.

During the session, we will:

• share a short overview and updates on the SEND White Paper proposals
• gather feedback on what is working well and where families feel there are gaps based on your lived experiences of SEND services in Southend
• explore how the national changes might affect families locally

Additional drop‑in sessions

Southend’s Parent Carer Forum, the Southend SEND Independent Forum (SSIF), is also encouraging parents and carers to take part in the consultation and share your lived experiences.

They will be hosting informal drop‑in sessions at Southend Civic Centre where you can ask questions, learn more, and talk about what matters to you.

Drop‑in dates:

• 23 April, 10:30am to 11:30am (Committee Room 7)
• 1 May, 12:30pm to 1:30pm (Committee Room 7)
• 11 May, 10:00am to 11:00am (Committee Room 4)

You can also read the SEND Area Partnership’s update and learn more about the national consultation: www.livewellsouthend.com/SENDReformUpdates