A forum representing families of children with special needs and disabilities (SEND) plans to drive forward a range of measures designed to help improve support.

A string of recommendations were outlined following a survey of families of SEND children conducted by Cheshire West and Chester Parent Carer Forum (PCF) earlier this year.

It found parents and carers were left 'frustrated' at what they felt was a 'lack of communication' with SEND services in the borough, leading to what it called a 'complete breakdown in trust' for some.

The forum subsequently put forward a number of recommendations, including establishing a new co-production charter, enhancing staff training, and fostering a culture of 'empathy and respect'.

Looking to the year ahead at its recent AGM, the forum said it now planned to implement the survey recommendations.

It said: "The survey results will act as a benchmark for measuring improvements against the work that the council are committed to doing with the PCF and wider community.

"The PCF will also be offering training for parent volunteers interested in joining the steering group in the new year, as well as continuing to host forums and coffee events on a wide variety of topics related to SEND in the borough."

The PCF represents families of children and young people with SEND and has more than 670 active members.  Funded by the Department for Education, it is a volunteer, parent-led organisation dedicated to understanding the experiences and challenges faced by parent carers in Cheshire West and Chester.

Commenting at the AGM, chairperson Julie Duff added: "We will continue to work hard to protect, develop, and foster a strong community of SEND families, one that is inclusive and supportive and brings people together without division.

"We know how important this is to ensure that families don’t feel isolated or alone, navigating the complicated SEND system."

She also praised the hard work and dedication of PCF representatives, emphasising the forum’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive community for SEND families.

Ms Duff added: "Despite the challenges, there is optimism for positive change in the upcoming year. We understand systemic change takes time and we are in it for the long haul."

In May, a meeting of full council backed a motion for greater SEND inclusion and support in the borough which included mandatory training for councillors.

It followed a protest held outside the council's HQ by CWaC SEND Accountability - a group comprised of parents who say they have been 'let down' by local services.