Mar 10, 2022, The Star: ‘I am truly sorry’ – parents of disabled children receive an apology from Sheffield’s director of education https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/politics/i-am-truly-sorry-parents-of-disabled-children-receive-an-apology-from-sheffields-director-of-education-3605566
Central England
Sheffield’s education chief says he is “truly sorry” that parents of disabled children have been let down by the council – and admits many are still struggling.
Inspectors recently revisited Sheffield Council after they previously found significant weaknesses in its special educational needs and disabilities provision.
Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission carried out the joint revisit after a 2018 inspection ruled an action plan was required.
Ofsted hasn’t yet published the latest inspection report but Andrew Jones, director of education and skills, admitted the council still hadn’t made enough progress with the way children transition through services….
“However, there is also still an awful lot still to do. Specifically, we think that there has been sufficient progress in six areas of weakness, but there is still insufficient progress in one area.”
‘I am truly sorry’
Mr Jones said he was pleased progress has been made but added: “For too many parents and carers still, this progress is not being felt.
“Too many parents feel that their voices are unheard and for too many parents and carers the process of getting support for their children still feels too complicated.
“We are committed to dealing with this. We’re committed to resolving issues for children, young people and their families and we’re committed to listening and acting on feedback….
Roughly half of all local authorities in England have, or have previously had, a written statement of action for their SEND services following inspection.
Andrew Jones, director of education and skills, says he is "truly sorry" that parents of disabled children have been let down by Sheffield Council
Comments