A report to consider the progress on delivering the SEND Strategy for Reading 2022-2027.

The Committee received a report providing an update on the delivery of the Reading partnership Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Strategy 2022–2027 and the Reading Local Area SEND Self Evaluation Framework (SEF). The report summarised progress made on the ambitions and actions set out in the strategy and highlighted the effectiveness of the partnership in improving outcomes for children and young people with SEND and their families.

The SEND Strategy 2022–2027, launched in January 2022, was delivered through six work strands: Communications, Early Intervention through to Specialist Support, Emotional Wellbeing, Preparing for Adulthood, Short Breaks, and Local Area Inspection. Each strand was overseen by a steering group with representation from Reading Borough Council, Brighter Futures for Children, the NHS, and parents and carers.

In October 2024, a strengthened SEND Strategy Board was launched, co-chaired by the Executive Director of Children’s Services and the Director of Vulnerable People at the BOB Integrated Care Board. A comprehensive self-evaluation (SEF) was completed, highlighting strengths such as the commitment to co-production, the effectiveness of the Therapeutic Thinking approach, and the expansion of specialist provision.

Key Highlights included:

·       Launch of the Reading Inclusion Support in Education (RISE) service to support inclusive practice in schools.

·       Improved access to early years speech and language support, with no current waiting list.

·       Development of a new Emotional Health Triage model to streamline access to mental health support.

·       Strategic leadership of a Berkshire-wide neurodivergent screening transformation project.

·       Expansion of supported internships and employment pathways for young people with SEND.

·       Continued co-production with families and young people, including the development of a SEND Roadmap and updated Local Offer resources.

Areas for Development included:

·       Continued long waiting times for ADHD and autism assessments.

·       Need for improved integration and clarity in health service pathways.

·       Development of a joint commissioning strategy across BFfC, RBC, and the ICB.

·       Expansion of post-16 education and housing options for young people with complex needs.

·       Improved data sharing and tracking of short breaks and outcomes.

The Committee noted the progress made in early years and school inclusion, and discussed the importance of addressing waiting times, transitions to adulthood, and the need for integrated commissioning.

Resolved –

(1)           That the progress made in delivering the SEND Strategy 2022–2027 be noted;

(2)           That the key strengths, challenges and priorities set out in the partnership Self Evaluation Framework (SEF) be noted;

(3)           That the next steps to continue to deliver the 2022-2027 SEND Strategy be endorsed.