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.
Champions for Change (C4C) – Our young people’s forum
We are proud to announce that our young people’s forum is now up and running! The group brings together young people with SEND aged 11 to 25 from across mainstream schools, specialist schools, colleges, and those not currently in school.
Since launching, the forum has met several times and achieved some exciting milestones:
- Chosen a group name: Champions for Change (C4C)
- Designed a badge to represent their identity
- Taken part in judging the SEND Stars Awards nominations, helping to celebrate outstanding contributions in the SEND community
C4C work in partnership with the SEND community (Education, Health, and Care) to make sure young people’s voices are heard.
What does C4C do?
Members of the forum will:
- Engage with the SEND Partnership Governance Board
- Collaborate with the local authority on co-production and provide feedback on services and initiatives
- Represent C4C at appropriate events
- Take part in interview panels for key SEND staff
- Carry out surveys to gather young people’s views
- Design and create a newsletter for young people
- Direct and produce information videos for the website
- Create posters and flyers for events and activities
Want to get involved?
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 forum, please email sendmatters@bromley.gov.uk.