Summary

The October 2024 Local Area SEND Partnership Board meetings addressed SEND-related issues, focusing on EHCP compliance, service improvements, and Neurodevelopmental Pathway updates. Key decisions were made to tackle ongoing challenges and improve outcomes for children and families.

Key Actions and Outcomes:

1. Action Log Review:

• Updates: Seventeen actions were reviewed from the previous meeting, with several completed. Ten actions remain open but not overdue.

• Outcomes: The action log was accepted as accurate. Members noted improvements in addressing pending actions efficiently.

2. Continuous Improvement Group Update:

• Key Updates:

• Progress on the SEND team restructure, with interviews for 35 roles ongoing.

• Work has started to improve the tribunals process and reduce delays.

• Outcomes:

• Recruitment to SEND roles will continue.

• Expected improvements in EHCP compliance in the coming months.

3. EHCP Complaints and Annual Review Process:

• Key Updates:

• Most complaints relate to delays in EHCP annual reviews.

• Timeliness of tribunals was identified as a challenge.

• Outcomes:

• Analysis of complaints will be shared with the Board.

• Strategies to improve EHCP timeliness will be developed.

4. SEND and Alternative Provision Strategy:

• Key Updates:

• A draft strategy was reviewed, emphasising early identification of needs and service access for families.

• Outcomes:

• The strategy will be presented for final approval in December 2024.

5. Strategic Performance and Dashboard:

• Key Updates:

• EHCP compliance remains low at 17%.

• Improvements in data collection and reporting noted, but further refinement needed.

• Outcomes:

• The Board requested a detailed breakdown of key metrics.

• Clearer communication of progress to parents and carers will be prioritised.

6. Neurodevelopmental Pathway Update:

• Key Updates:

• Waiting times remain high but show signs of improvement.

• Additional funding of £1.1 million has been secured by the Local Authority.

• Outcomes:

• Ongoing work to reduce waiting times and secure further funding.

• Updated progress report due February 2025.

7. Risk Register:

• Key Updates:

• Concerns about escalating Dedicated Schools Grant deficits flagged.

• Outcomes:

• Risk mitigation strategies will be developed and monitored.

Main Resolutions:

• Regular updates on EHCP compliance and complaints will be provided.

• The SEND and Alternative Provision Strategy will include detailed engagement outcomes.

• Neurodevelopmental Pathway improvements will continue, with updated reports due early next year.

• The Risk Register will be reviewed to address funding challenges and other concerns.

Summary of Duties (Actions):

• Monitor and improve EHCP timeliness and compliance.

• Continue recruitment for SEND team roles to address capacity issues.

• Reduce waiting times for Neurodevelopmental and Speech and Language services.

• Manage funding risks linked to the Dedicated Schools Grant deficit.

• Communicate improvements clearly to families and carers.