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Welcome to our termly SEND Matters newsletter! Whether you're a parent, carer, young person (from birth to 25), or a professional, this is your go-to source for the latest news, updates, and services supporting those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in the London Borough of Bromley. Stay informed, get inspired, and discover new opportunities—because every achievement, big or small, deserves to be celebrated!

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Workshops for families from the Early Years Inclusion team (EYIT)

Navigating the SEND Local Offer together!

SEND Local Offer website's mini make-over

A transformative day for young people with SEND at the Bromley Civic Centre - Young SEND Matters Live!

Street Smarts, a travel training course for 18+

SEND Employment Matters! Parent and young people information event

Supported Internships come to Bromley Council

Building inclusive workplaces

London Legacy Conference

The Autistic Voice Project: Empowering Autistic People and Raising Awareness

Bromley Mencap’s Station Road training centre praised in first Ofsted inspection

Changing Places

An introduction to SEND, the TA SWAP programme

Post-16 information workshop for professionals

Everyday technologies for accessibility

Social communication needs one stop coffee shop!

Introduction of the SEND Communication Charter

Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment Information Session for Parents and Carers

Why be positive about autism?

Be a SEND Network Champion!

Have your say!

Clubs and Events Guide

Upcoming Events

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Workshops for families from the Early Years Inclusion team (EYIT)

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Workshops for families from the Early Years Inclusion team (EYIT)

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The Early Years Inclusion Team (EYIT) continues to enhance its support for families by expanding its Parent/Carer workshops. Following a successful launch last academic year, the team has extended the offer to include evening sessions, ensuring greater accessibility for families. These workshops, held in Children's Centres, cover a range of standalone topics, allowing parents and carers to choose sessions that best suit their needs.

Recent workshops focused on supporting communication, receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees:

"All aspects were delivered in a clear and concise manner, excellent and a lot to take away."

"A very insightful workshop that I feel will benefit my son."

"Really nice to meet other parents."

"I loved the alternative options, such as Post-its and whiteboards, gives you lots of resolutions."

"Appreciating the importance of visuals."

"Love the course."

Building on this success, the EYIT is further developing its workshop offerings based on valuable feedback from families. In collaboration with Bromley Healthcare's Health Visiting team, new sessions are being introduced to support families with emerging needs. These trial workshops will cover topics such as sleep, eating challenges, toileting, behaviour, and sensory needs.

The new sessions will be accessible via referral, extending support to a broader range of families who may not require wider interventions but would still benefit from targeted guidance. The EYIT remains committed to providing inclusive and practical resources to empower parents and carers in supporting their children's early development.

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Image of Emerging Need Parenting Workshop information leaflet. Items of text include information under the sub-headings: Sleep, Behaviour, Eating Challenges, Toileting, Sensory. Logos include Bromley Healthcare and Bromley SEND Outreach Teams.

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Navigating the SEND Local Offer together!

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Navigating the SEND Local Offer together!

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Recently, parents across the London Borough of Bromley were given the opportunity to explore and better understand the Bromley SEND Local Offer through a series of interactive workshops. These sessions, held as parent coffee mornings at local primary schools and through parent focus groups such as Lay Witness for Christ International (LWFCI), aimed to introduce parents to the online resource designed to outline the services and support available for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), aged 0-25.

During the sessions, parents were encouraged to bring their own devices and explore the website first hand. This hands-on approach allowed them to navigate the platform, discover key contacts, and familiarise themselves with the services available.

At the LWFCI parent focus groups, the discussions were particularly engaging and insightful. Parents were keen to learn about:

Key SEND contacts and the list of EHCP coordinators, which many found helpful.

The need for clearer information on the Graduated Approach and SEND support options.

Interest in more leisure activities for young people with SEND, especially creative and musical options, as well as activities for individuals aged 18+.

The feedback was positive, with parents appreciating the practical guidance on navigating the SEND Local Offer website. They also welcomed the transparency around future improvements, such as clearer contact information, enhanced directory filters, and expanded leisure activity listings.

Parents praised the sessions for being informative and empowering, expressing interest in attending more workshops. They found the opportunity to ask direct questions and receive clear, practical advice invaluable.

Some of the feedback included:

"Thank you very much. It was EXTREMELY useful."

"Thank you so much. So many helpful things were discussed."

"Really appreciate it so much."

The SEND Programme team is committed to offering more sessions in the future, ensuring that more parents can benefit from this collaborative and informative experience.

If you are interested in hosting a 'Navigating the SEND Local Offer together' session at your school or parent group, please contact localoffer@bromley.gov.uk or complete the online registration form. These workshops are a fantastic way to gain valuable insights into the support available for children and young people with SEND, and to connect with other parents on the same journey.

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Image of the Bromley SEND Local Offer logo with the title Navigating the SEND Local Offer Together! Text reads 'Bring your device, explore the website, and discover the support available for your child'. Bromley Council logo. NHS South East London logo. 

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The Bromley SEND Local Offer website has recently undergone a series of improvements, making it more accessible and user-friendly for families, young people, carers, and professionals. These updates reflect ongoing efforts to ensure that key information is easy to find and clearly presented.

Navigation by age group:

One of the most noticeable changes is the redesigned homepage, which now features content organised into age-specific categories:

🧒 Early Years – Information and support for children aged 0-5.

🎓 Primary School Years – Resources for children in primary education.

🎒 Secondary School Years – Guidance tailored for older children and young people.

This new structure aims for users to quickly access the most relevant information for their child’s or young person's stage of development.

Easier access to key contacts:

The website now includes a Key Contacts section to make communication more accessible. This feature lists important contact email addresses, enabling users to easily find and reach the appropriate person or service. Whether seeking advice, requesting support, or making an enquiry, visitors can now locate contact details with minimal effort.

Video links for clearer guidance:

Recognising the value of visual explanations, the website now incorporates videos alongside written content. These videos offer clearer guidance on key topics, such as the Graduated Approach, and Preparing for Adulthood Outcomes, Speech and Language routines and more.

Ongoing updates and social media announcements:

Further improvements and updates to the SEND Local Offer website will be shared through the SEND Local Offer social media platforms. Please follow, like and share the social media pages Facebook and Instagram, to stay informed about the latest changes, helpful tips, and new content.

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Image of the Bromley SEND Local Offer website homepage. Visit www.bromley.gov.uk/SENDLocalOffer

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A Transformative Day for Young People with SEND at the Bromley Civic Centre

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A Transformative Day for Young People with SEND at the Bromley Civic Centre

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The new Council Chambers at Bromley Civic Centre became a beacon of inclusivity and empowerment as young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) took centre stage at the Young SEND Matters Live event held on Wednesday 2nd April. The atmosphere was electric with excitement, and from the very first moment, it was clear that this was more than just a meeting—it was a celebration of young voices being heard, valued, and acted upon.

Senior leaders from the SEND partnership across education, health and social care, gathered in the impressive chambers, fully engaged and eager to listen. The grandeur of the setting added a powerful sense of importance, reinforcing to the young attendees that their perspectives truly mattered.

One of the most inspiring aspects of the event was the active participation of the young people themselves. Through interactive workshops, lively discussions, and dynamic presentations, they articulated their aspirations, challenges, and ideas for improving services and accessibility. Their confidence grew with every contribution, and their energy was infectious—prompting even the most senior figures in the room to take note, engage, and respond with genuine enthusiasm.

Senior leaders not only listened, but they actively committed to action. They acknowledged the intelligence, creativity, and resilience of the young people, expressing their deep appreciation for the invaluable insights shared. Many described the event as an opportunity to shift the way policies are shaped, ensuring they are guided by the voices of those who are directly affected.

Young people left feeling empowered, knowing that their contributions were not just acknowledged but taken seriously. The sense of achievement and collective purpose resonated throughout the chambers, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended.

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Photo of 5 young people around a table with notepads and laptop. Bromley Local Offer for Young People logo. Bromley Council logo. NHS South East London logo. Bromley Local Offer logo. Title reads SEND Matters Live for Young People.

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Street Smarts, a travel training course for 18+

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Street Smarts, a travel training course for 18+

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LBB Adult Services has commissioned CASPA to design and deliver a 'Street Smarts' travel training course for 18+ individuals that would benefit from gaining confidence to navigate public transport and other environments independently and safely.

Participants have made impressive progress, all mastering basic navigation, confidently using buses and trains, and recognising landmarks. Some are excelling in handling complex travel situations, such as managing unexpected detours and transitions between transport methods.

Many are also improving other skills such as using smart phones and other technology as an aid, planning ahead, knowing where and who to ask for help and maintaining personal safety in busy settings.

The overall growth has been remarkable, with participants increasingly able to plan and complete trips with minimal support, showcasing their developing independence.

The next course is starting Monday, 7th April, with spaces still available. To sign up, please complete the online form: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=2W_MlxScq0KVy4hCdznxm-Wh4gk-NXFAplKaY4f4-uJURURPM0ZJTERQMzdZN1Y2SENENUYzTU1KRiQlQCN0PWcu&origin=QRCode&route=shorturl

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Photograph of 7 people waiting at a bus stop.

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SEND Employment Matters Parent and Young People Information Event

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SEND Employment Matters Parent and Young People Information Event

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The SEND Employment Matters Parents Information Event on Wednesday 19th February, provided an opportunity for parents, carers and young people with SEND to learn more about employment opportunities within Bromley such as Supported Internships and upcoming information events. Attendees were able to ask questions and receive guidance related to employment and vocational training.

The event also covered a new programme Connect to Work, a new initiative aimed at improving supported employment opportunities. This programme will focus on bridging the gap between education and the workplace, supporting people in developing the skills and experience needed for sustainable employment. As the initiative progresses, we will keep families, schools, and employers informed with further details on how they can get involved and benefit from this exciting opportunity. Stay tuned for more updates!

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Image of the SEND Employment Matters Parents and Young Persons information event. Image of 7 young people smiling and laughing. Image of young person holding a sign with the words: Email now to reserve your place. Logos include Bromley SEND Local Offer, Bromley Council and NHS South East London.

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SEND Employment Parent YP Information Event SM-1

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Supported Internships coming to Bromley Council! Click play to view the video.

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Supported Internships come to Bromley Council!

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Supported Internships come to Bromley Council!

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Bromley Council is excited to announce the launch of its Supported Internship Programme, designed to provide a structured pathway into employment for young people with Education, Health, and Care plans (EHCPs). This initiative is a key step in Bromley’s commitment to expanding employment opportunities for young people with SEND, equipping them with the skills, experience, and confidence to transition into the workplace successfully.

Delivered in partnership with The Oaks Specialist College - a Microsoft Showcase Accredited setting and the only Post-18 Specialist College in the world with this status - the programme will offer interns the opportunity to develop essential workplace skills, with a particular focus on digital literacy and employability. The Oaks’ expertise in digital skills training, ensures that interns develop industry-relevant skills that enhance their employability across various sectors.

This launch highlights Bromley’s efforts to create inclusive employment pathways for young people with SEND. By bridging the gap between education and work, the Supported Internship Programme will provide young people with the tools they need to succeed in their future careers.

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SEND Employment Matters: Building Inclusive Workplaces

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SEND Employment Matters: Building Inclusive Workplaces

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On Thursday 13th February 2025, the SEND Programme team, in collaboration with the Economic Development Team, hosted the SEND Employment Matters event at The Bulls Head in Chislehurst. The event aimed to engage local employers, raise awareness about the benefits of inclusive workplaces, and provide practical guidance on opening up employment opportunities for young people with SEND.

The event was developed in response to discussions within the SEND Employment Forum around uncertainty about the support available, workplace adjustments, and the practicalities of hiring young people with additional needs. To address these concerns, the event offered businesses the tools and confidence to take steps toward inclusivity.

The event was structured as an interactive CPD opportunity, with talks on reasonable adjustments, funding opportunities, and the benefits of a diverse workforce. Speakers included representatives from The Oaks Specialist College, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the Princess Royal University Hospital regarding their Supported Internship, members of the SEND Programme team on Reasonable Adjustments and the work currently done in schools and addresses from Heads of Departments and Directors of Bromley Council. A standout moment was a presentation from students at Langley Park School for Boys, who delivered a session on “Social Communication in the Workplace”, who educated attendees on effective communication strategies for young employees with SEND.

The event was a great success, building valuable discussions and connections between businesses, SEND specialists, and employment support services. It reinforced Bromley’s commitment to supporting inclusive employment and provided businesses with the knowledge and confidence to engage with SEND initiatives.

A quote from one attendee was:

All the speakers were clearly passionate about the mission and extremely knowledgeable on the specific services they offer and from an observers perspective, the structure of deliveries I don't think could have gone better.  Especially the last group of courageous, very bright sparks who left a lump in the throat of quite a few of the audience I think (I hope not just me). I learnt a huge amount.

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Image of information flyer. Title reads: Building inclusive workplaces to support people with SEND. Includes information about the programme for the event and some of the speakers. Logos include NDTi, Job Centre Plus, Oaks Specialist College, London South-East Colleges, Bromley Mencap, Bromley Council, NHS South East London and the Bromley SEND Local Offer logo.

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Building Inclusive Workplaces social media

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Building Inclusive Workplaces video montage. Click play to view!

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The Autistic Voice Project: Empowering Autistic People and Raising Awareness

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The Autistic Voice Project: Empowering Autistic People and Raising Awareness

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CASPA have been working on the Autistic Voice Project, a powerful initiative funded by the London Borough of Bromley. For the past 5 weeks, the focus group have been meeting for two hours each week, creating a safe space where autistic adults can share their experiences and insights. Together, the group have explored what it’s like to navigate the world as an autistic person—in public spaces, shops, on transport, at school and work, and within family and social circles. From the challenges of being an autistic parent to interactions with siblings, peers, and friends, the group have delved into the rich and varied realities of autistic life.

With this collective knowledge, the focus group is now developing a range of accessible resources aimed at improving understanding and support for autistic people. These include:

• Situation cards offering practical tips for different scenarios.

• Leaflets and infographics to promote autism awareness and understanding.

• Short social media videos that illustrate key experiences, such as masking and meltdowns, to reach both younger and older audiences of all neurotypes.

The focus group's goal is to create meaningful materials that empower autistic individuals with knowledge while also educating the wider community. By sharing authentic autistic voices, we hope to foster greater empathy, inclusion, and acceptance in society.
For more information about the focus group, contact Miranda Webberley, CASPA Senior Programme Delivery Manager at contactus@caspabromley.org.uk

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Image of CASPA's focus group, 5 people sitting around a table.

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Bromley Mencap’s Station Road training centre praised in first Ofsted inspection

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Bromley Mencap’s Station Road training centre praised in first Ofsted inspection

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Bromley Mencap is an independent, self-funded charity dedicated to supporting disabled people of all ages, as well as their families and carers, to lead fulfilling lives. They provide a wide range of services, including education, employment support, leisure activities, and information and advice, all designed to promote independence, inclusion, and well-being. Their training centre helps young people aged 16-25 with an Education, Health, and Care plan (EHCP) develop essential life and employment skills, empowering them for the future.

Following a two-day Ofsted monitoring, Ofsted confirmed that the centre was making 'Reasonable Progress' in all areas, recognising the strong foundations and commitment to continuous improvement. Ofsted defines 'Reasonable Progress' as having a positive impact across all key themes of the inspection. The inspection highlighted the strengths of our provision and identified areas for further development.

Key Strengths:

Tailored Curriculum – Designed in response to local demand for more post-16 education opportunities for young people with moderate learning difficulties, the curriculum equips learners with essential knowledge and skills for employment and independent living.

Ofsted noted: “Leaders and managers have developed a curriculum with a clear aim to teach young people the essential knowledge and skills they need to gain employment and live more independently.”

Dedicated Staff & Support – Bromley Mencap's experienced team provides personalised guidance, fostering a welcoming and inclusive learning environment.

Ofsted highlighted: “Leaders, managers, and staff know the learners well. They generate a warm sense of belonging and community at the college.”

Positive Learning Environment – Learners feel safe, supported, and engaged, with strong attendance and clear personal and academic progress. A range of teaching strategies and mediums are used to enhance learning for each individual.

As Ofsted observed: “Learners enjoy attending and show exemplary behaviour on site. They attend well and all achieve their main qualification.”

Safeguarding & Wellbeing – Bromley Mencap maintain a strong safeguarding culture, ensuring learners feel secure and confident to raise concerns. A wide range of topics are covered to enhance learners’ understanding of safety and well-being.

As Ofsted confirmed: “Learners feel safe. They trust staff and are confident to raise any concerns about their safety or welfare.”

You can read the full report here.

A Message from Bromley Mencap's CEO,

Anna McEwen:

“We are delighted with this positive first inspection report from Ofsted. Over the past few years, we’ve been on a significant learning journey as an organisation, and it’s fantastic to see our hard work recognised. Ofsted has confirmed that we are making a positive impact across all areas, which is a testament to the dedication of our staff, who have created an engaging and supportive learning environment for young people. The transformation we’ve seen in our learners—growing in confidence and independence—makes all the effort worthwhile. I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our staff, learners, and families for their support. We’re excited to build on this success and continue developing the Training Centre for the future.”

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Photograph showing eight staff members from Bromley Mencap, standing outside their Station Road Training Centre.

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Changing Places are toileting facilities which include a ceiling hoist, height adjustable changing bench and a peninsular toilet with space for one or two people to assist if needed. These facilities are essential for many people with complex physical and/or learning disabilities to ensure their personal care needs can be met in a safe and dignified way. Changing Places provide space either side of a toilet for independent transfers and the availability of a hoist and bench enables a parent or personal assistant to reposition a full time wheelchair user ensuring they are comfortable out and about for longer. Over the last few years Bromley has seen the creation of 6 new Changing Places across the Borough.

Need2Change, a group of Bromley Mums who all have lived experience of complex disability, worked with Bromley Council to secure government funding and deliver these facilities. This has paved the way for new activities such as Walking Football and Chair Yoga for young people aged 16-25 years with SEND at The Warren and Aqua Active sessions at The Pavilion and Biggin Hill Memorial Library and Pool. The Changing Places complement facilities at The Glades Shopping Centre, Bromley Vue Cinema, Crystal Palace Park, High Elms Country Park and The PRUH.  Work is currently underway to create two further facilities at The Walnuts Leisure Centre in Orpington and West Wickham Leisure Centre.

Need2Change kindly asks groups who are planning and adapting activities and events for children and young people with complex disability to consider holding them at venues which have Changing Places facilities, so that more people can attend.  For one-off events companies such as Accessoloo, Mobiloo or Revolootion can provide mobile facilities.

Please feel free to send any queries to hello@need2change.org who are happy to assist you.

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Photograph showing the inside of a Changing Place toileting facility.

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Teaching Assistant Sector Work Academy Programme (SWAP)

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Teaching Assistant Sector Work Academy Programme (SWAP)

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Following the outstanding success of the Teaching Assistant Sector Work Academy Programme (SWAP) pilot, delivered by London South East Colleges in partnership with the London Borough of Bromley, a second course took place in January 2025.

This course was led by SEND Advisory teachers, members of the SEND Programme Team, and colleagues from the Bromley SEND Partnership.

Over five weeks participants:

Gained an introduction to working with pupils with Autism, ADHD, and mental health needs.

Explored the importance of safeguarding and key protocols.

Experienced insights into school environments through visits to local primary, secondary, and specialist schools.

Developed personal and professional skills to support career growth.

Enhanced their CVs, job applications, and interview techniques.

Achieved two Level 1 accredited qualifications: Employability Skills and Preparing to Work in Schools.

As part of the scheme, schools are considering flexible contracts, helping to create inclusive and accessible employment opportunities.

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Image of a large display monitor, a table with 4 disposable takeaway cups, and a selection of portable devices.

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Celebrating the success of SEND employment pathways in London

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Celebrating the success of SEND employment pathways in London

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On Monday 25th February, members of the Bromley SEND Programme team along with Dave King, Lecturer and Course Leader from London South East Colleges (LSEC) were invited to join the National Development Team for Inclusion (NDTI) at their London Legacy Celebration Conference at the Guildhall in Central London.

The conference brought together Government ministers, dignitaries, and representatives from 33 London councils to celebrate the incredible efforts and achievements of local and regional stakeholders in transforming SEND employment pathways for young people with additional needs through the internships work programme.

The event was an opportunity to:

Celebrate: achievements and progress across London.

Connect: meet with local, regional and national partners and learn from others.

Contribute: discuss the continued growth of supported internships in London.

Opening the conference were inspiring introductions from Barbara Hamilton, MBE, Head of Adult Skills, Education and Apprenticeships, City of London, and Ian Thomas, CBE, Town Clerk and Chief Executive, city of London Corporation followed by keynote speeches that supported the efforts and ethos behind SEND employment from:

Rt Hon. Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disability

Cathine McKinnell, MP and Minister for Schools Standards

Councillor Ian Edwards, Executive Member for Children and Young People, London Councils and Leader of Hillingdon Council

This was followed with an emotional, funny, yet inspirational theatre production from Newham’s theatre company ‘Act Up’ who enacted their experiences when attempting to find and secure employment.

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Photograph of inside the Guildhall. Round tables and large monitor.

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The infographic drawing was created by one of the talented NDTI team during the London Legacy Celebration Conference and illustrates the content of the conference and the emotions that it inspired.

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Post 16 Information Workshop for Professionals

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Post 16 Information Workshop for Professionals

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March saw the launch of our second Post 16, Education, Training and Employment online workshop for professionals.

This workshop, hosted by Bromley Council’s SEND Programme Team, offered an opportunity for professionals working with young people with SEND to come together with local providers to learn about some of the alternative options and courses available to develop young people’s employability skills and outcomes.

Professionals from 30 in borough and out of borough education settings and Bromley services met with providers that included:

The Bromley Adult Education College

Bromley Mencap Employment and Education Services

London South East College (LSEC) – Supported Internships and Apprenticeships

Palace for Life – Game On programme

Bromley Well

The National Careers Service Bromley

The SEND Programme team will now plan to deliver a similar information workshop for parents, carers and young people. Look out for further details!

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Image of Post-16 Information Workshop for Professionals flyer. Photograph of two people looking at a mobile phone. Top right has the Bromley SEND Local Offer logo. Title reads Post 16 Information Workshop for Professionals. Logos of Bromley Adult Education Centre, Bromley Mencap, Bromley Well, London South East Colleges, and Palace for Life. Bottom left has logos of Bromley Council and NHS South East London. QR code for registering at bottom left.

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With support from the Oaks Specialist College, this innovative, in-person information workshop was hosted and delivered at Marjorie McClure Specialist School.

As the only college setting in the UK to be fully accredited by Microsoft as a Showcase Provider, the Oaks Specialist college team delivered a learning experience to professionals about the ways that common accessibility features on mobile phones can help learners to develop skills for employment and life.

Feedback from all those attending was that they had learned so much that they could share with their colleagues and students.

The Oaks Specialist College will once again be delivering this interactive workshop at their site on Thursday 19th June 2025. For more information, please email SEND.Employment@bromley.gov.uk.

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Image of Everyday Technology for Accessibility event flyer. Bromley SEND Local Offer logo. Photograph of teacher and students looking at a iPad. Photo of group of people looking at a laptop. QR code bottom left. Oaks College logo, Showcase Schools logo, Marjorie McClure logo, Bromley Council logo, NHS South East London logo.

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Everyday technologies for accessibility SM

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Image of flyer. Main title reads: Experts by Experience. Text reads: Interactive accessibility showcase. 19th June 2025, 10am to 1pm. More details on how to book shortly.

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Social Communication Needs One Stop Coffee Shop!

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Social Communication Needs One Stop Coffee Shop!

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On Tuesday 4th March 2025, the Social Communication Needs service held a ‘One Stop Shop’ event at Blenheim Children and Family Centre.

26 services attending the event and provided support and signposting to a number of families.

Alongside the event, an I Can Play SEN session was running which the children thoroughly enjoyed!

It was a great event, and the Social Communication Needs service is looking forward to doing this again in the future!

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A collection of 12 photographs from the Social Communication Needs One Stop Coffee Shop which took place at Blenheim Children and Family Centre. Photographs include services: Bromley Experts by Experience, Bromley SEND Local Offer, Bromley Early Years Inclusion Team, CASPA, Social Communication Needs Targeted Support Service, Bromley Y, Bromley Early Years, Bromley Mencap, Oakonsult, Bromley Well, and photographs from the I Can Play sessions.

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Introduction to the SEND Communication Charter

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Introduction to the SEND Communication Charter

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Bromley Council are committed to ensuring every child is at the centre of what we do.  By working with service users and their families and our partners we can improve outcomes for our children and young people. The SEND Partnership recognises that in order to achieve this, we must communicate effectively with each other.

The purpose of the charter is to ensure that Bromley Council has consistent standards and processes in our approach to communication with our families.

This charter will be implemented within the statutory assessment team initially.  Together we will work to involve other SEND teams and wider partners.

We have created this charter and standards to help clarify what we expect of each other.

The SEND Team’s approach to communication is based upon what families and young people have told us are important to them.

Read the full SEND Communication Charter at Special Education Needs and /or Disability (SEND) Communication Charter.

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Education, Health and Care (EHC) Needs Assessment Information Sessions for Parents and Carers

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Education, Health and Care (EHC) Needs Assessment Information Sessions for Parents and Carers

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The SEND Programme Team together with our engagement partners Your Voice in Health and Social Care continue to hold Education, Health and Care (EHC) Needs Assessment information sessions for parents and carers who have applied for a plan.

Once it has been agreed to carry out an assessment, parents and carers are invited to the online Teams virtual session so that the process can be explained. Parents and Carers are then given an opportunity to ask questions.  These sessions are held monthly.

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I know some autistics might be negative about their diagnosis or they might think it is a superpower. I feel that it can have its negatives and positives. I believe it's because I am now older and have lived experience of being autistic and that makes me positive. Why? When I was first diagnosed in 2011 I didn't know anything about Asperger's or autism. It was only reading about them and learning from it, that I began to understand myself better. I know my limitations and triggers more and why it is what it is. When I feel constant loud noises start affecting my head, and think that I am going into sensory overload, I know what to do and excuse myself, leaving the room. Eg when I went to the dentist the other week for fillings. The dentist had to drill decay out of my tooth first and the vibration of the drill went through my head and I started to feel my head go fuzzy. I asked to stop and could I have a break. I went to the toilet. Those five minutes helped my head calm down, so I was able to go back to the room to have the rest of the treatment. The same is for bright lights. When I was in hospital in 2023, when the light from another patient's bed was shining too much over me, I pulled the curtains round to dim the brightness. It is knowing what affects me and how I can help myself cope with it that makes me positive.

Since I have been writing articles, children's books and making videos about autism, I have been learning more about myself, especially triggers causing meltdowns and shutdowns. I know that the main trigger for meltdowns is usually being late for appointments. So if I am, then I can phone ahead to the department and let them know and the time I might get there. For shutdowns, I know that it has been caused by lots of things happening in my life over a short period of time that my brain can't handle, especially going to different places within a week. So knowing this, unless it is hospital appointments which I know I have to attend, any events I go to I make sure I space them out so I have plenty of days in between that I can recharge my energy. All of this is helping me to write better. Having all this lived experience also helps me be an autism advocate to other autistics and their children and families with my writing and workshops.

To read more about me and my children's books, check out my website www.julieaday.co.uk.

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Welcome to Julie Day Author | Happy Day Press

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Welcome to Happy Day Press. I’m Julie Day Author and write magical realism books for adults and children.

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Are you an outstanding and passionate individual who wants to make a difference for children and young people who have SEND and support your service in this area?

If the answer if yes, join us! Become a SEND Network Champion! Contact Kay Moore, SEND Programme Manager at SENDMatters@bromley.gov.uk.

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Image of SEND Network Champion poster. The next event is scheduled on 14th May 2025. To find out more or express an interest to become a SEND Network Champion, contact Kay Moore, SEND Programme Manager at SENDMatters@bromley.gov.uk. Cartoon image of group of people. Bromley local offer logo. Bromley Council logo. NHS South East London logo.

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SEND Network Champion school circular (1)

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Your feedback will help us to improve our services and to make the Bromley SEND Local Offer easier for you to access.

Please use this link to give your feedback.

Let us know what you think!

We’d like to hear from you about what you would like to see in this newsletter.

So, if you know of anything locally that’s relevant to special needs and disabilities for children and young people, that other parents/carers and young people would like to hear about which includes local events, please let us know.

Just email us at localoffer@bromley.gov.uk or complete our Local Offer feedback form.

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Visit the Clubs and Events Guide to find out what special educational needs and disability clubs and events are happening near you!

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Image of information poster for activities taking place at Bromley Experts by Experience.

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Information leaflet for the Preparing for Secondary School Transition EHCP event. Email parentengagementservice@yvhsc.org.uk

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Year 5 Transition to secondary school 2025

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Image of SEND Matters Live for Parents and Carers information leaflet. Bromley SEND Local Offer logo. Photograph of mother holding her child. Email parentengagementservice@yvhsc.org.uk for more information. Bromley Council logo. NHS South East London logo. Bromley Parent Carer Forum logo. YVHSC logo.

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CASPA Infinity Social Group for autistic and neurodiverse adults age 30+

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CASPA Infinity Social Group for autistic and neurodiverse adults age 30+

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Image of information poster showing details of the new social group for autistic and neurodiverse adults age 30+. Taking place at West Wickham and Shirley Baptist Church, every other Thursday from 7pm to 9pm. To find out more, email Chloe Jones at Chloe@caspabromley.org.uk.