Agenda item - Holiday Support for SEND Children

Presentation by the Assistant Director, Health, SEN and Disabilities.

49.1    Members received a presentation from the manager of the Outreach Service, describing holiday activities during summer and October 2021 for children and young people with SEND.  

49.2    Councillor Hamilton was impressed with the provision.  He asked how the scheme was advertised and whether children who were home schooled were notified of the activities. The Outreach Manager said it was advertised through schools and promoted through Social Services, however, they were aware that individuals who were learning from home had not been targeted and this would be explored.    

49.3    Councillor O’Quinn asked about future plans for the scheme as she felt there was a substantial need for it.  The Outreach Manager confirmed that funding discussions about future provision were ongoing and they were working closely with the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) team to provide activities under the HAF remit.

49.4    Ms Boyd felt the advertising had been focused on children in receipt of free school meals and that perhaps it was no longer seen as a SEND activity.  The Outreach Manager explained the emphasis was on SEND children and she would ensure this was made clearer going forwards.     

49.5    Councillor Grimshaw asked if there were any activities that were oversubscribed.  The Outreach Manager said that all the children who attended the sessions had the opportunity to access each of the activities. 

49.6    RESOLVED: The Committee agreed to note the presentation.