Following an Ofsted and Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection earlier this year, which highlighted both strengths and areas for improvement within the Southend-on-Sea Local Area Partnership, a new strategic plan has been developed. The inspection acknowledged the dedication of staff across education, health, and care services, noting effective partnership working and support for many families.
However, the inspection also identified inconsistencies in experiences and areas requiring collaborative improvement. These include enhancing preparation for adulthood, refining the quality of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and annual reviews, promoting greater school inclusion, improving access to neurodevelopmental and mental health support, and strengthening the evaluation of the partnership's impact.
The new SEND Strategic Action Plan for 2026 to 2029 builds upon identified strengths such as effective multi-agency collaboration, co-production with children, young people, and families, and strong practices in early help and social care. It outlines clear priorities, actions, and measurable outcomes aimed at delivering tangible and lasting benefits.
This Action Plan is a dynamic document that will evolve. Following engagement activities for the refresh of the SEND Strategy 2027 to 2029, feedback will be reviewed and incorporated to ensure the plan continues to align with the priorities of the local community.
