How to Respond to the SEND Consultation
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
A guide for families of children with Fragile X syndrome
The Government is asking for feedback on proposed changes to the education system in England, including support for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. This is your opportunity to share what life is really like for your child and help shape future support.
You do not need to be an expert to take part. Your experience matters.
If you would like to learn more about the proposals, you can watch this half hour webinar from the
Council for Disabled Children: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ee8p83R5F-Q&t=823s
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Getting started
You can complete the consultation online using the official questionnaire here:
You do not have to answer every question, just the ones you feel most relevant to your family.
It can help to read a short summary first, but you can also go straight to the questions and respond in your own words.
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What to include in your response
The most powerful responses are based on real experiences. Try to explain clearly what has helped your child and what has been difficult.
For example, you might want to share:
Your child’s experience of school
What has worked well
What has been challenging
Support your child has received
Whether support was easy or difficult to access
If it met your child’s needs
Understanding of Fragile X in school
Whether staff understand anxiety, sensory needs and communication differences
Whether reasonable adjustments are made
Your views on what would help
What you would like to see improve
What good support would look like for your child
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Things families often highlight in Fragile X
You may wish to include points such as:-
• The importance of early identification and support
• The need for staff understanding of Fragile X and its learning profile
• Support for anxiety, sensory sensitivities and transitions
• The importance of flexible teaching approaches and reduced pressure
• Access to specialist support when needed, including EHCPs
• The value of working in partnership with families
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Tips for completing the consultation
• Keep your answers simple and honest
• Use examples from everyday life
• It is fine to repeat key points across different questions
• You can focus on just one or two areas that matter most to you
There is no right or wrong answer. Your voice is important.
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Even a short response can help decision makers better understand the needs of children with Fragile X syndrome. By sharing your experience, you can help contribute to discussions about improving support for children and young people.