A celebration event has taken place in Cheshire West to welcome the latest 10 volunteers who help parents and carers who have children with special educational needs.
The volunteers work with the council’s Parent Partnership so informed decisions can be made about a child’s education.
The celebration marked the latest volunteers from across the borough passing a course which is practical and uses case studies. They were joined by experienced volunteers at the event which took place at Ellesmere Port Civic Hall.
Councillor Mark Stocks, executive member for education and children, said: “I would personally like to thank all our volunteers who have such valuable and important roles.
“The volunteers are crucial in enabling us to help parents and carers who have children with special educational needs, to make informed decisions about their child’s education and to become partners with professionals.
“The aim of the Parent Partnership is to empower parents and carers by providing a confidential and impartial source of independent advice and support. It does not make decisions for parents and carers.”
The volunteers come from all over Cheshire West and Chester and from all walks of life. Some have helped the Parent Partnership for many years.
They complete an initial accredited training course which gives them invaluable experience and in depth knowledge of the special educational needs processes and procedures.
Some of the things volunteers can help parents and carers with include:
- Preparation for meetings with school or the council.
- Help to express concerns during meetings
- Explain the education system, the structures and roles of professionals and any confusing terminology
- View schools
- Complete forms
- Signpost to any relevant information or other organisations that may also be able to help.
- Hold various information events about special educational needs throughout the year
- Help to run a parent /carer forum which meets each term at various venues across Cheshire West.
Mark Parkinson, the council’s head of service for achievement and wellbeing, presented certificates and said: “This was a wonderful occasion and all our volunteers need a special ‘thank you’ for all their care and hard work.
“They help parents and carers through what can be a complicated process to make sure that their child has a place at the correct school and I know that our volunteers are highly regarded.”