West Sussex: SEND pupils have inconsistent experiences - report

While the work being carried out by both organisations was recognised, the report said there was more to be done

West Sussex children with special educational needs have "inconsistent experiences", a report has found.

It said too many education, health and care needs assessments were not being completed within the statutory timescales - and quality of the plans was 'variable'.

The report was published on Thursday by Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

West Sussex County Council's Jacquie Russell said she "welcomed" the report.

Responsibility for planning and delivering services for children with SEND lays with West Sussex County Council (WSCC) and NHS Sussex, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

While the work being carried out by both organisations was recognised, the report said there was more to be done.

The report said: "The area's actions in response to challenges presented by some children and young people's poor mental health and absence from school are of variable effectiveness.

It said that some children attending school could access support through nine new mental health teams but for some with poor attendances "lengthy wait times for diagnosis and treatment exacerbates their situation".

Ms Russell, the council's cabinet member for children & young people, learning and skills, said: "Helping them to achieve their potential is a priority for West Sussex County Council and I'd like to thank Ofsted and the CQC for the insight on how we can do better for them.

"I welcome the report as a chance for us to review and reflect on services we provide."

'Beginning to make improvements'

The report praised some work, saying: "Leaders are ambitious for children and young people with SEND.

"They are aware of and are beginning to make improvements to remove barriers to opportunity, to improve equality of access to services, and to enable children and young people to achieve their maximum potential."

Dr Dinesh Sinha, chief medical officer at NHS Sussex, said: "We are committed to ensuring that all young people receive the right help and support they need to lead successful lives and welcome the report's findings."

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