It was a pleasure to meet Children’s Commissioner Dame Rachel de Souz and Deputy Commissioner Ellie Lyons recently where we discussed a range of topics including: support for SEND pupils, the importance of access to education and the Commissioner’s aim to improve school attendance rates, especially for vulnerable children, and the need for greater co-ordination of local services to support children and schools. We also discussed the importance of options and opportunities within education so that children can work towards their chosen career in the best way to suit their needs.
These are all the issues raised with me by our local schools and colleges during our regular meetings, and I am delighted the Children’s Commissioner is not only involved in addressing these issues, but was kind enough to offer support for our local efforts to improve services and the support available for children across Runnymede and Weybridge.
Supporting local children, families and schools is a priority of mine, and in the coming months I plan to host a meeting to bring together school and College leaders with the Surrey Council Cabinet Member for Education, senior officers and Surrey and Border NHS Trust, who are responsible for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services locally.
In the meantime, if you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties accessing services or support, please do not hesitate to contact me at [email protected]
