As spring brings new beginnings, growth, and hope, the Hackney SEND Parent Carer Forum (HSPCF) continues to flourish as a strong, united voice for families of children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) across Hackney.
This season, we are proud to reflect on the progress we’ve made together and the impact your voices continue to have in shaping local and national SEND services.
Chair’s Welcome
| It is a pleasure to welcome you to the second edition of our Hackney SEND Parent Carer Forum newsletter. Over the past year, our forum has continued to grow in strength, purpose and visibility, and I want to thank you for the trust and energy you bring to this community. Since our launch, we have been working hard to ensure that the voices of Hackney’s SEND parents and carers are represented where decisions are being made. We have contributed to key local discussions with the local authority, education settings, and health partners, making sure your experiences and priorities shape the services our families rely on. We have also taken part in regional and national forums, adding Hackney’s voice to the wider conversation on SEND policy and improvement across the country. Our aim remains the same: to ensure that parents and carers are not just heard but actively involved in driving change. Your insights, challenges and hopes to continue to guide our work, and we are committed to representing you with honesty, compassion, and determination. Thank you for standing with us as we build a stronger and more inclusive future for our children and young people. We look forward to another year of collaboration, support, and progress. |
Your Voice Matters More Than Ever
This spring is a crucial time for SEND families, with several important national consultations underway, including:
- SEND White Paper proposals
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) review
- Adoption and support consultations
While these proposals aim to improve the system, many parents have raised concerns around access to support, EHCP eligibility, and accountability within services.
HSPCF strongly encourages all families to share their views—because real change starts with your voice.
Influencing Change Locally
Your feedback has directly shaped key discussions in Hackney, including:
- Behaviour & Inclusion Scrutiny Commission
- Local Area SEND Inspection feedback sessions
- Preparing for Adulthood (PfA) workstreams
Parents highlighted challenges such as inconsistent support, difficulties accessing plans, and gaps in post-16 provision. These insights are now informing improvements and future planning.
This is co-production in action—where families and services work together to build better outcomes.
🤝 Supporting Families Beyond Services
HSPCF continues to expand support through key initiatives:
Healthy Parent Carer Programme
Helping carers prioritise their own wellbeing through peer-led sessions, building resilience and confidence.
PINS Project (Neurodiversity in Schools)
Supporting inclusive school environments and strengthening relationships between families and professionals.
Information & Resources
From benefits guidance to financial planning and SEND support tools, we are committed to ensuring families feel informed and empowered.
Looking Ahead
There is still much to do—but together, we are making real progress.
From influencing national policy conversations to creating safe spaces for families locally, HSPCF remains committed to building a more inclusive, supportive future for every child and young person with SEND.
🔗 Read the Full Newsletter
To explore all updates, opportunities, and resources in detail, read the full Spring Newsletter here:
