We are pleased to introduce the SEND Youth Forum, a participation platform to be co-designed with young people aged 14 to 25. This exciting initiative aims to empower and engage young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) by providing them with a space to voice their opinions, share experiences, and drive positive change in Hampshire.
What is the SEND Youth Forum?
The SEND Youth Forum is a collaborative space where young people can connect, learn, and advocate for their rights. The forum will focus on issues that matter to them and will feedback into workstreams across Hampshire to impact service delivery and strategic decisions.
- Inclusivity
The forum welcomes participants from diverse backgrounds, abilities, and experiences. It is not a requirement to have a formal diagnosis or EHC (Education, Health and Care) Plan to be able to join the forum - the voice of all young people with SEND matters.
- Virtual and Face to Face
The forum will operate online and in person, allowing all young people to participate. Decisions on the format and location of meetings will be co-produced with young people to enable them to engage in discussions, attend events, and contribute to meaningful projects.
- Peer Support
An opportunity for young people to connect with fellow young advocates who understand the challenges faced by those with SEND. An opportunity to share stories, offer encouragement, and build a supportive network.
Raising Awareness
As you will already have active participants in School Council and Learner Voice groups, you may be aware of young people with SEND who would benefit from this opportunity. Please share this information and encourage these young people (aged 14 and above) to join the forum and be part of a community that amplifies their voices, particularly with any Year 11 learners who will be moving onto Post 16 settings soon.
By encouraging young people to participate, this will empower them to take an active role in shaping their own futures. Insights from the forum will also support educational practices, curriculum development, support services and provide young people with a sense of ownership in contributing to key decision making.
How Can Young People Get Involved?
Please encourage young people to register their interest online at: https://forms.office.com/e/hQNNCY1nau
Or by scanning the QR Code below:
An initial online meeting will then take place with all interested participants to discuss plans further.
For more information or any questions, please contact: SEND.Emp@hants.gov.uk