You said, we did

As a direct result of your feedback, we've made the following changes:

A new annual review system. This allows you to have more control over your child’s EHC plan and be central to decision-making
An easier to read EHC plan template. This includes preparation for adulthood and clear provision.
Recruited a permanent team to reduce changes to staff. This means schools and parents will find it easier to know who to contact.
Improved links with social and health care to make more robust contributions to EHC plans.
Created a front door staffed by senior officers during the week. Parents and schools can book in a time that works for them and be confident they will be able to speak to someone.
Created family link officers based in localities, with a named officer who will support the family.
Implemented a training and development plan for the EHC team. This will make sure they’re up to date and skilled on EHC pathways.

You said

Parents are requesting assessments from an educational psychologist (EP). They feel needs have changed but some schools are saying it isn’t possible.

We did

We will always reassess when needed. We are implementing new training for all SENCos. New EPs are joining Walsall

Email queries are not being responded to in some areas in a timely manner. There have been delays answering main switchboard number and sometimes calls being disconnected.

We did

We are setting up a communication system which will work via locality emails. This will ensure emails are always answered. We have a duty rota to return all calls.

Parents feel that the Local Offer website is not fit for purpose and looks too corporate.

We did

We have created an improved Local Offer website. This has been co-produced with our parents and young people.

We would like more communication from the LA about what support is going on in Walsall. 

We did

We have introduced a SEND Services Communications. These communications are distributed every five weeks to schools and families. The communications share updates, highlight services, and promote participation opportunities.

If you would like to be added to the mailing list, please email us.

Local offer website can be confusing; I can’t find the information I need under the expected headings. 

We did

We have worked with our digital team to create a more accessible Local Offer. On the landing page there are three sections – parents/carers, children/ young people and professionals. Under these sections headings you will now find clearer sub sections to find the information you need quickly.  

Search bar function doesn't work on the Local Offer. 

We did

Our digital team reviewed the meta data used to allow this function to work efficiently. They have added more keys words to this to ensure search criteria from users is now found. 

I don’t know what each team is - no explanation for terminology or professionals. Think it would be handy to have an explanation (glossary of terms).

We did

A glossary of terms has been added to the Local Offer, put together with our parents/ carers, children, young people and partners. If you feel we have missed anything, please let us know.  