We want to put the voice of our children and young people who have special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) at the heart of what we do.
We run lots of participation groups. Sometimes they're face to face and sometimes they're virtual. Our participation groups give you the chance to have your voice heard on the things that matter to you and to give you the opportunity to influence decisions. It’s also a chance to have fun and meet others who may be in a similar situation.
The groups focus on what is working well in Bromley and what needs to change. They're also a lot of fun!
We hold Young People’s SEND Matters Live events twice a year where we welcome young people from 11 to 25 years of age to meet Senior Leaders from the SEND Partnership across Education, Health and Care. The next event will take place during the summer term. More details to follow soon.
SEND Matters Live for Young People
A transformative day for young people with SEND at the Bromley Civic Centre
The new Council Chambers at Bromley Civic Centre became a beacon of inclusivity and empowerment as young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) took centre stage at the Young SEND Matters Live event held on Wednesday 2 April. The atmosphere was electric with excitement, and from the very first moment, it was clear that this was more than just a meeting - it was a celebration of young voices being heard, valued, and acted upon.
Senior leaders from the SEND partnership across education, health and social care, gathered in the impressive chambers, fully engaged and eager to listen. The grandeur of the setting added a powerful sense of importance, reinforcing to the young attendees that their perspectives truly mattered.
One of the most inspiring aspects of the event was the active participation of the young people themselves. Through interactive workshops, lively discussions, and dynamic presentations, they articulated their aspirations, challenges, and ideas for improving services and accessibility. Their confidence grew with every contribution, and their energy was infectious—prompting even the most senior figures in the room to take note, engage, and respond with genuine enthusiasm.
Senior leaders not only listened, but they actively committed to action. They acknowledged the intelligence, creativity, and resilience of the young people, expressing their deep appreciation for the invaluable insights shared. Many described the event as an opportunity to shift the way policies are shaped, ensuring they are guided by the voices of those who are directly affected.
Quotes included:
“It was interesting”
“Good event, thoroughly enjoyed it”
“I really enjoyed seeing the people from Bromley Council”
“It was very informative and useful”
“I found this event very interesting”
“It was very good”
Young people left feeling empowered, knowing that their contributions were not just acknowledged but taken seriously. The sense of achievement and collective purpose resonated throughout the chambers, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended.
Young SEND Champions
We are establishing a group of young people to represent the young people’s SEND community. All team members will work together with the SEND partnership (Education, Health and Care).
The Young SEND Champions will be part of the interview panel for key members of SEND staff. They will also provide feedback on initiatives and services, carry out surveys, design and create a young people’s newsletter, direct and create information videos for the website, create posters and flyers for young people’s events and activities.
If you are a young person aged 11 to 25, with special educational needs and/or disabilities, and would like to be part of this exciting new forum, please email sendmatters@bromley.gov.uk.