A NEW support service for Warwickshire youngsters with a Special Educational Need or Disability (SEND) has been launched by a national charity.
KIDS West Midlands, which provides support services for children, young people and their families, has launched ‘Connect and Be Heard’ – an online programme to support to young people aged 14-25 with SEND.
The charity will organise an online monthly group, creating an opportunity to meet new people, make friends and take part in a range of activities to promote positive emotional wellbeing and give SEND youngsters a voice. The online group will be facilitated by KIDS staff with the young people planning and agreeing the activities.
KIDS also plan to host social meet-ups in the school holidays and facilitate individual support for young people to make decisions that impact on their future.
The new project will run until September 2022 to support young people’s mental health and increase their participation in their communities.
The project is funded by the Warwickshire Covid-19 Mental Wellbeing and Resilience Fund following a successful bid.
Claire Reid, Regional Manager for KIDS, said: “KIDS is delighted to be one of the beneficiaries of the Warwickshire Covid-19 Mental Wellbeing and Resilience Fund.
“With the support of this funding from Warwickshire County Council (WCC), we have been able to launch our Connect and Be Heard Project that will directly benefit young people with SEND aged 14-25 and their families across the county.
“The project aim is to support young people with their emotional well-being and increase their resilience to build strategies which can be used throughout their life. Supporting young people to build their confidence, skills and opportunity to participate in decision making that impacts on their lives.
“Working together we can improve the lives of young disabled people and their families in Warwickshire.”
WCC’s children and families spokesman Coun Jeff Morgan said: “I am really pleased that WCC has been able to provide the funding for the project. It is a great way for young people with SEND to have their voice heard and to receive support and advice around mental health.
“I am sure that the project will be of real benefit of all those involved, and I look forward to hearing more about the great work being delivered by KIDS West Midlands.”
