Services for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities in the City of London have received a glowing verdict from inspectors.
A joint inspection by Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission found children and young people receive tailored, compassionate support through a collaborative approach across education, health and social care services.
It looked at the role played by the City of London Local Area Partnership, in which the City of London Corporation and NHS North East London Integrated Care Board share responsibility for children and young people with SEND living in the Square Mile, working with City parents.
The report praised a ‘deeply embedded culture of collaboration’ which helps young people reach their potential, and the high importance placed on listening to children and young people and their families.
It also found that City parents, through the Parent Carer Forum, worked closely with services to help shape key plans, including the SEND strategy and support for neurodevelopmental needs.
Meanwhile, inspectors found leaders and practitioners had a ‘deep understanding’ of the young people they support, meaning they can respond to their needs with ‘flexibility, confidence and care’.
Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Community and Children’s Services Committee Helen Fentimen said:
“This is a really positive report which recognises the efforts of everyone who works tirelessly to ensure our children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities get the support they need.
“What shines through is the way in which leaders and practitioners really know their young people, and the care taken to ensure they get support individually tailored to their needs, giving them the best chance of enjoying successful, happy lives.”
The report praised the short breaks service allowing children to socialise with their peers, the information and advice service offered to families, and the transition support for children moving to schools outside the City.
Charlotte Pomery, Chief Strategic Commissioning Officer at NHS North East London, said:
“We’re delighted that this report acknowledges the collaborative efforts of local partners in supporting children and young people with SEND and their families.
“Alongside this, the inspectors have recognised the early identification of need and the range of effective assessment and health support services provided, including speech and language therapy, occupational therapy and mental health support.
“This is testament to the dedication and commitment of our local teams to ensuring children and young people with SEND in the City of London can lead happy, healthy and fulfilled lives.”
The report can be viewed in full at https://files.ofsted.gov.uk/v1/file/50291924
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