A survey from families with children who have special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) is helping to shape future services.

Cheshire West and Chester parent carer forum (PCF) is an independent body of volunteers that represents families of children and young people with SEND.

It has been a year since it published a survey into the views, challenges and struggles faced by parents and carers across the borough.

Revealing more SEND parents were reaching out for help, its findings also highlight how more people in positions of influence were willing to listen.

The forum, which sits on the council's SEND partnership board, helps by signposting to services, sharing information, and creating spaces where parent carers can meet others who understand their experiences.

This included events such as its recent 'preparation for adulthood' event - which had 75 people in attendance.

Lucy Kennerley, vice chair of the PCF, said: "We made clear recommendations off the back of the survey and we're proud to say we are well on our way to achieving them.

"As always, there is still work to do. And, as always, key pieces of work have emerged along the way that weren't part of the original plan but couldn't be ignored."

According to the forum, a total of 370 parents attended forums and training events. It also delivered a free six-week parent volunteer training programme.

But despite the growing needs of parents, she said more people were willing to listen.

She added: "The difference now is that these voices are being listened to in the right places.

"Our next steps are to continue shaping culture change.

"There are a couple of opportunities where parents can be involved in this. From joining so workshops in shaping a commitment pledge that will sit in the co-production charter to attending the second SEND summit."

Insights on the report can be found here.

For more information on how to get involved contact [email protected]