Type of service: Parent partnerships, Parent partnerships, Family support and information services

Bexley Information, Advice and Support Service (IASS) (formerly Bexley Parent Partnership Service) aims to ensure parents of children with additional needs - including the very young - have access to information, confidential advice and guidance. This is in relation to the special educational needs (SEN) of their children so they can make appropriate and informed decisions. The IASS in Bexley: Offers practical support to parents and carers either individually or in groups to help them in their discussions with schools and/or the Local Education Authority (LEA); Ensures that parents views are heard and understood, and inform and influence the development of local SEN policy and practice; Offers accurate, neutral information on parental rights, roles and responsibility within the SEN process, and the range of options available for their child's education; Offers information about other agencies such as Health services, social services and voluntary organisations that can offer advice and information about their child's special educational need; Attempts to use best endeavours to provide access to an Independent Parental Supporter for all parents who want one; Ensures that, in conjunction with the parent the ascertainable views of the child are sought and taken into consideration; Ensures that a range of information for parents is available in community languages, and to parents who may not be able to gain access to information through conventional means; Ensures that training on good communication and relationship with parents is available to teachers, governors and staff in SEN sections of the LEA; and Works with schools, LEAs and other agencies to help them develop positive relationship with parents..

Aimed at: Adolescent , Adult , Child , Parent/carer of a child, Parent/carer of a young person, Parent/carer of an adult, Young person

Specialisms: Generic