'Valuable' sleepovers at special schools set to continue

Mum Vicky said her son Archie benefited from service

Parents of pupils with complex educational needs in Staffordshire have cautiously welcomed news that residential placements are expected to continue after a county council budget review.

The £1.8m service had been under threat, but a recommendation proposes extending a contract with five special schools until 2026.

If approved, it will be the second time in four years the service has been reprieved and parents told the BBC in November it would be "devastating" if it closed.

Commenting on Thursday, Vicky, from Chesterton, whose son 15-year-old Archie benefitted from overnight stays, said it was good news so many parents and carers had made their voices heard.

"It's great so many people have come forward and said how valuable it is. You get sick as a parent of having to justify yourself," Vicky said

"It'll be a brilliant thing when it's finalised. It's still looming over our heads at the moment until they finalise the decision but it's a step forward."

Parents, carers and schools were thanked for their feedback by the councillor for special education needs and disabilities (SEND), Jonathan Price.

He said there was a "great deal of feedback" and "enthusiasm" over the service.

"I wanted them to know as soon as possible that I will be recommending to colleagues that the contract be extended," he added.

Cicely Haughton Primary School supports primary-age children with social, emotional and mental health needs

Overnight stays are offered at Cicely Haughton in Wetley Rocks, Loxley Hall School in Uttoxeter, Saxon Hill Academy in Lichfield, Walton Hall Academy in Eccleshall and Horton Lodge in Rudyard.

Staff help children develop essential skills, such as independent washing, dressing and social interaction with peers.

Richard Redgate, CEO of Manor Hall Academy Trust, said he was delighted by the news.

He said the residential education teaches students "the kind of life skills most of us take for granted".

"It gives them a brighter future and enables them to live happy, independent and productive lives, thereby reducing dependency and social costs," he said.

Schools have also said the supported sleepovers provided value for money for the most vulnerable, but the council previously said they were only available to a minority of children.

“I think the challenge for them is to broaden access so as many eligible children as possible can benefit from it and that is an issue we will be discussing with them in the coming months," Mr Price said.

The council's cabinet will formally consider the recommendation in the new year.