About Derby SEND Voice
Mission
To empower and support parents and caregivers in our community, we the Derby
Send Voice, are dedicated to creating a nurturing environment where families can
connect, share knowledge, and advocate for the best interests of our children with
unique needs. Through collaboration, education, and advocacy, we strive to enhance the well-being and inclusion of every child, ensuring they reach their fullest potential.
Vision
Our vision is a future where every parent and caregiver in our community feels
informed, supported, and empowered. We aspire to be a driving force for positive
change, fostering a society that embraces diversity and inclusivity, where children
with special needs are valued, included, and given every opportunity to thrive.
Together, we envision a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow
What is a Parent Carer Forum?
A parent carer forum is a structured organization or group that brings together parents or caregivers of children with special needs or disabilities. Its primary purpose is to provide support, information, and a collective voice for these parents. Here’s a more detailed explanation of what a parent carer forum is and what it does:
- Support Network: Parent carer forums serve as a support network for parents who are raising children with disabilities or special needs. These parents often face unique challenges and can feel isolated. The forum provides a platform for them to connect with others who understand their experiences.
- Information Hub: These forums gather and share valuable information about services, resources, and educational opportunities available to children with special needs. Parents can exchange knowledge and learn about the latest developments in healthcare, education, and disability-related policies.
- Advocacy and Representation: Parent carer forums advocate on behalf of parents and children with special needs at local, regional, and national levels. They work to ensure that the voices and concerns of these families are heard by policymakers, service providers, and organizations involved in disability support.
- Education and Training: Many forums offer training sessions, workshops, and seminars to help parents become better advocates for their children. They provide information on topics such as understanding disabilities, accessing services, and navigating the education system.
- Collaboration with Local Authorities: Parent carer forums often collaborate with local authorities, government agencies, and service providers to improve the quality and availability of services for children with special needs. They participate in discussions and decision-making processes to shape policies and services that directly affect their children.
- Peer Support: Parents in these forums can share their personal experiences and strategies for coping with the challenges of raising children with disabilities. This peer support can be invaluable in reducing stress and providing emotional encouragement.
- Awareness and Community Building: Parent carer forums work to raise awareness about the needs and rights of children with disabilities. They also aim to build a sense of community among parents, creating a network of individuals who can offer guidance and empathy.
In essence, a parent carer forum is a vital resource for parents of children with special needs or disabilities. It functions as a support system, an information hub, an advocacy group, and a platform for collaboration, all aimed at improving the lives of children with disabilities and their families.
