SEND Communications Preferences Survey Results

Thank you to everyone who took part in our SEND communications survey.

We asked how parent carers of children and young people with special educational needs get their news and information.

We also asked what kind of topics you’re interested in.

We’ll use this information to ensure we are providing the most relevant information to you in the way that you prefer.

What we learned

• People most commonly receive SEND information through schools, colleges, SENDCos and the Torbay SEND newsletter.
• Most respondents would like information about new or changing SEND services.
• Updates on how SEND services are improving were highly requested.
• Information about rights, processes and education, health and care plans (EHCPs) remains important.
• The SEND newsletter is the preferred way to receive information.

You said

• You want more information about new or changing SEND services.
• You want updates about improvements being made by local partners.
• You want more information about rights, EHCP processes and available support.
• You would like information about SEND-friendly activities and events.

What we'll do

• Continue developing the SEND newsletter as a key source of information.
• Share more updates about service developments and improvements.
• Promote local SEND-friendly activities, groups and events.
• Improve information about support services, eligibility and referral pathways.

Where people currently get SEND information

SEND newsletter feedback

Sixteen respondents said they read the SEND newsletter. Fourteen of those said they liked it. Two respondents said they did not.

What people like about the newsletter

• It is informative.
• It contains useful updates.
• It supports clear communication.

Suggested improvements

"Not everything is included in the SEND newsletter. Important updates are missed."

Family Hubs website

Twelve respondents said they use the Family Hubs website while seventeen said they do not.

Why people use the website

• Information about education provision.
• How to access services.
• EHCP information and processes.
• Social care support.
• Local services and support directories.

Areas for improvement

"You need to Google what you want to find it."

Social media use

Twenty-five respondents said they use social media to receive information about SEND services and news.

What information people would like to receive

Preferred communication channels

Who responded

About these results

The survey received 29 responses. Some questions allowed respondents to select more than one answer, so totals may exceed the number of people who completed the survey.