Lambeth SEND and inclusion strategy

Healthwatch Lambeth engaged 60 children and young people aged 14 to 25 to gather views on Lambeth’s SEND and Inclusion Strategy, focusing on preparation for adulthood and participation in decision-making. Participants included young people with learning disabilities, young carers, care leavers and those with English as an additional language. Young people identified education, life skills, family support, mental health support and access to information as key factors in helping them achieve independence and prepare for adult life. 

While some positive examples were highlighted, including mentoring programmes, college enrichment activities and student representation structures, many participants reported gaps in support. Concerns included insufficient information about education pathways, housing, benefits and available services, lack of employment, volunteering and work placement opportunities, limited support for families of children with SEND, and difficulties accessing mental health support. Young carers also felt that their own needs were often overlooked because they were seen as capable and independent. 

All participants believed it was important for young people to have a voice in decisions affecting them. They wanted participation opportunities to be creative, inclusive and tailored to different needs. Suggestions included focus groups, mentoring, digital engagement, school-based activities and events with guest speakers. However, many reported few opportunities to influence services and some felt previous consultation exercises had not led to meaningful change. Trust, relationship-building and communication in accessible language were all seen as important for effective engagement. 

Healthwatch concluded that young people value education, independence and being listened to, but need better access to information, services and practical opportunities as they move into adulthood. The report recommended that young people’s lived experiences should inform the SEND and Inclusion Strategy, that identified service gaps should be addressed through planning and commissioning, and that organisations should improve how they involve and communicate with children, young people and families to ensure participation leads to genuine influence on decisions and services.