This network has been growing from strength to strength ever since its inception in 2008 under the auspices of Commissioning Support for London, Children and Families Programme. It was extended to the National Network of Parent Carer Forums (NNPCF) in 2015.
The network has complemented the SEND regional co-ordinator programme and allows members the opportunity to hear about, discuss and consider the
implications of new and current legislation, policy decisions, consultations and initiatives related to SEND.
It is funded by subscriptions.
Who is part of this network?
Members can contact the facilitator (Bethan Evans, contact details opposite) at any time asking for ideas from other members, or to advertise new jobs or events.
Membership eligibility
Membership of the group is open to senior managers in local authorities, health services and voluntary organisations who have responsibility for strategic development for more than one service for children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities.
Some health providers are members in their own right.
To ensure parent carer representation, membership includes the NNPCF Steering Group members for London and parent representatives from the three London regional National Network of Parent Carer Cluster groups (NNPCF).
Management and Governance
The network is supported by a Steering Group of local authority, health organisations and voluntary sector representatives. Members of the Steering Group help to design events and chair meetings of the network.
When do we meet?
The network meets a minimum of four times a year, (or more frequently if income from subscriptions allow). Meetings provide an opportunity for members to receive policy updates and share practice. A wide range of themes are covered each year.
At the end of the year the network joins with the SEND regional co-ordination programme for London.
Additionally, updates are provided at each Network event about the London Region SEND Co-ordination programme on new resources and upcoming training.