FAMILIES united in Somerset for a national movement to call for urgent SEND reform.

Families from 97 local authority areas across England and Scotland came together on Monday, November 3, in a powerful show of solidarity for “Every Pair Tells a Story” led by SEND Sanctuary UK in partnership with “Let Us Learn Too” and” Let’s Make a Difference”.

In Bath and North East Somerset (B&NES) the local gathering took place outside the Guildhall, where families laid out pairs of children’s shoes, each tagged with a personal story. These shoes represented thousands of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) who are still waiting for the educational support they need and deserve.

The event was described as “calm, emotional, and deeply moving”. Parents Leanna Biggs, Emily Jolliffe, and Louise Prior were joined by Cllr Lesley Mansell (Labour, Radstock Ward) in a quiet but powerful display of advocacy.

Parent and counsellor for parents of neurodivergent children, Emily said: “We’re incredibly proud of how strongly families came together to make their voices heard and to share their stories.”

B&NES currently supports 1,210 children and young people with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).

However, only 68.1 per cent of new EHCPs were processed within the statutory 20-week timeframe, a delay that can significantly impact children’s development and wellbeing, placing immense strain on families and carers.

“Many neurodivergent children are being excluded, not just from school, but from social and economic life,” said Cllr Lesley Mansell. “This display is a stark reminder of the urgent need to improve the EHCP system, and to do so without delay.”

For parents and carers seeking community and guidance, Neurodivergent Parenting Together offers support and information.

Emily can signpost parents to other local and online support groups at: [email protected]