MLA in call for SEN support for families

MLA in call for SEN support for families

17 April 2024

A LOCAL politician has highlighted the need for more to be done to support children with special educational needs and their families in the Downpatrick area.

The appeal by South Down MLA Cathy Mason follows a meeting last week of Stormont’s education committee.

Mrs Mason described reports that children with special education needs and their families are not getting the support they need as “deeply concerning”.

She said too many young people and their parents are being failed by the current system. 

“Young people with special educational needs in South Down must have access to the services they are entitled to,” said Mrs Mason.

“Sinn Féin has consistently called for an overhaul of the special education needs system to ensure it meets the needs of children and families.”

The South Down MLA urging education minister Paul Givan to work with the health minister and others to transform services so the needs of children in Downpatrick and across the country are properly met.