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On Wednesday April 19th 2006 I raised the subject of Special Education Needs for a dedicated debate in Westminster Hall. Somerset Couny Council planned to close a number of valuable SEN resource bases. The way in which the plans were portrayed to parents caused anger and resentment. The debate was the first opportunity to place local concerns before the appropriate Government Minister.
Click on the link here to read a full official transcript of the debate: http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200506/cmhansrd/cm060419/halltext/60419h05.htm#60419h05_head0
Cllr Gloria Cawood should note the comments made by Minister Maria Eagle
The Minister agrees with me that parents are the best informed critics. She agrees with me that the care of their children is of paramount importance. She agrees with me that much more genuine dialogue is vital before final decisions are made. And she warns that the elcorate may, in the future, pass judgement if parents remain unhappy.
Little debates in Westminster rarely raise a ripple. This one struck a chord and has uncorked a host of complaints about Somerset's care for Special Needs cases. I have been deluged with different stories from anguished parents about the treatment of their children. The County receives a great deal of money to deal properly and sensitively with young people who have Special Needs. I am currently investigating how that money is spent. You can help me by providing factual information. Somerset deserves better. Please CONTACT ME
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http://www.educational-psychologist.co.uk/ How to find an Educational Psychologist
http://www.dore.co.uk/ Some tests
http://www.dyslexics.org.uk/ And please have a look at this site too
http://beingdyslexic.co.uk/ .......and this one !