Early Years SEND Grant - Stay and Play Opportunities for Parents/Carers of Early Years Children with SEND

Under the Childcare Act local authorities have a duty to; to improve the wellbeing of children under the age of five and close the gap between groups with the poorest outcomes and the rest of the borough (with a particular focus on families in greatest need of support), in order to reduce inequalities in child development and school readiness, parenting aspirations, self-esteem, parenting skills, child and family health and life chances; Bolton Councils strategic plan for 2018 outlines key priorities for the Directorate of People in order to work towards the Bolton Vision 2030. These priorities include: Our children are safe and healthy Our children arrive at school ready to learn Working with the voluntary and community sector creates an opportunity to make best use of the limited resources available by engaging with volunteers to increase the capacity of services that work with vulnerable children and families. Engaging with volunteers also supports Bolton Council's priority of; Reducing poverty amongst families and children by removing barriers to work, increasing job opportunities and improving skills and productivity by increasing the knowledge, skills and experience of those who chose to volunteer. A recent survey of families of children with SEND, found that families would like more SEND specific support in the Early Years. The Startwell SEND Team are hoping to offer an enhanced Stay and Play session designed to meet the needs of parents and carers of children with SEND in the Early Years. To deliver this we are offering a grant opportunity for a local voluntary organization, school or setting who can share their knowledge of services and resources available to families and children with SEND in Bolton and facilitate these groups.