In This Article:
- Why Parent Feedback Matters for SEND Services
- Supporting Children and Young People with SEND
- Family Hubs Providing Local Support
- The Role of Parent and Carer Forums
- Why Reliable SEND Transport Remains Important
- How Families Can Get Involved
- Supporting SEND Families Across London
Why Parent Feedback Matters for SEND Services
Parents and carers play a vital role in helping local authorities understand the real-life experiences of children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Hammersmith & Fulham Council continues to encourage families to share their views through surveys and engagement initiatives designed to improve SEND support across the borough.
Feedback from families helps identify what is working well and where additional support may be needed. By gathering insights directly from parents and carers, the council can make informed decisions about education, health, care services, and wider community support for SEND children and young people.
For a broader look at future SEND education provision in the borough, read our guide to the H&F Special School Plan 2025–27 and what it means for local families and transport providers.
Supporting Children and Young People with SEND
Hammersmith & Fulham has developed a range of services aimed at supporting children and young people with SEND from early years through to adulthood. These services include specialist support, family guidance, community programmes, short breaks, and activities designed to promote inclusion and wellbeing.
The borough’s SEND strategy places significant importance on understanding the experiences of families. Surveys provide an opportunity for parents and carers to highlight challenges, share positive experiences, and contribute ideas that can help shape future service improvements.
Family Hubs Providing Local Support
Family Hubs across Hammersmith & Fulham serve as important community resources for parents, carers, children, and young people. These hubs offer access to advice, support services, learning opportunities, and specialist SEND assistance. The Family Hub network aims to create a welcoming environment where families can access information and connect with local services.
A key part of this support network is the specialist Family Hub Stephen Wiltshire Centre, which provides dedicated services for children and young people with SEND and their families. The centre offers information, guidance, support sessions, and opportunities for parents to engage with professionals and other families facing similar experiences.
The Role of Parent and Carer Forums
Alongside council-led engagement activities, local organisations continue to help ensure that parent and carer voices are heard. Parent-led groups such as Parents active provide support, advocacy, training, and opportunities for families to contribute to the development of SEND services across the borough.
These forums help strengthen communication between families, service providers, and local authorities, creating valuable opportunities for collaboration and continuous improvement.
Why Reliable SEND Transport Remains Important
For many families, transport is an essential part of accessing education, healthcare appointments, community activities, and support services. Children and young people with SEND often require specialist transport arrangements that prioritise safety, comfort, consistency, and individual needs.
As councils continue to gather feedback and improve services, reliable transport remains a key factor in helping SEND children and young people participate fully in education and community life.
Accessible transport solutions can help reduce stress for families while supporting independence and inclusion for young passengers.
How Families Can Get Involved
Parents and carers are encouraged to take part in SEND surveys and engagement opportunities whenever they become available. Every response helps provide a clearer picture of local needs and contributes to the ongoing development of services across Hammersmith & Fulham.
By sharing experiences and feedback, families can play a direct role in helping shape a stronger, more responsive SEND support network for current and future generations.
Supporting SEND Families Across London
Children and young people with SEND benefit most when services work together effectively. From education and healthcare to community support and transport, every part of the journey matters.
Find more details here.
Let Jimac Cars provide safe and reliable transport for families and young people with SEND needs, making every journey easier and stress-free.
