The document om this page is an insight report by Healthwatch East Riding of Yorkshire on the experiences of families seeking social care support for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). It includes survey results (from families, children and staff), key findings, and recommendations for improving services.

Key findings from the report included:

• Timing of Requests: Survey responses indicated an increase in support requests during school holidays and key educational transitions, suggesting a need for more support during these periods.

• Challenges in Making Contact: Families found it difficult to find contact information and had concerns about the negative perception of social care, which hindered their willingness to seek help.

• Main Reasons for Contact: The majority of requests were for respite and direct payments, followed by needs assessments, signposting, safeguarding support, and blue badge applications.

• Response to Requests: Most respondents felt the response from social care was not helpful, too slow, or unclear, with only a few finding it appropriate or timely.

• Areas for Improvement: Respondents highlighted the need for better communication, more knowledgeable staff, and clearer processes for assessments and support decisions.

• Recommendations: Healthwatch East Riding of Yorkshire made several recommendations, including improving online access to services, enhancing staff training, promoting the Local Offer website, and developing a right to appeal decisions

The report can be viewed and downloaded below.