Borough's SEND service has 'widespread failings'

Bracknell Forest has "widespread and systematic failings" in its special educational needs and disabilities services which need to be addressed "urgently", an inspection has found.

Bracknell Forest Council and Frimley Integrated Care Board were subject to a joint Ofsted and Care Quality Commission inspection in February.

Executive member for children's services Roy Bailey apologised "unreservedly" on the council's behalf.

A report found "too many children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) do not have their needs swiftly identified and met", with many missing "a substantial amount of their schooling" as a result.

The report found weaknesses in the current system mean there are delays in assessment, diagnosis, treatment and support and that families "report their frustrations at the inconsistent support" their children receive.

But the inspection also found examples where services provided effective support, often when children's needs are identified and met early.

The report outlines three areas for priority action and seven areas for improvement.

Last year, nearly 150 parents wrote to the council saying they were "deeply dissatisfied" with the management of SEND services.

Bailey said: "We want the best possible start to life for all our children and young people and so we know we must continue with our improvement plans so they get the right, education, health and care support.

"We are absolutely determined in our commitment to improve."

Bracknell MP Peter Swallow said the report "has put in black and white what parents have been saying for too long".

The Labour MP said: "Steps in the right direction have been made, but change must be deep and lasting – and this report gives all partners a pathway to success."

A monitoring inspection will be carried out in 18 months and the local area partnership is required to prepare and submit an action plan to address the identified areas for priority action.

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