Newsletter June 2025

Lucy Kennerley • July 23, 2025

PCF NEWS

In order to keep you up to date on all of the works we are involved in to ensure that your experiences are heard, we have created a new BLOG area on our website

PCF Blogs...

Here are some of the latest updates…..

A range of new and improved resources are now available to support neurodivergent children, young people, and their families across Cheshire and Merseyside. These include local and national directories, practical guides for families and professionals, and the trial of a new Neurodiversity Profiling Tool designed to ensure needs-led, timely support without the need to wait for diagnosis.

There are also updates on local services such as SPOTTS (Sensory Processing OT Service), the development of a new GP-led Adult ADHD model in West Cheshire, and professional feeding support for children on the autism pathway.

Read the full update from the link below.

Cheshire Neurodevelopment Clinical Network Update

Neurodiversity Profiling Tool Update: PROFILE STUDY (CHESHIRE AND WIRRAL PARTNERSHIP NHS FOUNDATION TRUST)

The Centre for Autism Neuro Developmental Disorders and Intellectual Disabilities (CANDDID) study team are evaluating the Neurodiversity Profiling Tool pilot and would really value your views.

Find out more by tapping the link below.

Tap here to register your interest!

Trust, Inclusion, and Leadership in SEND

Navigating the complexities of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) is a journey of challenge, learning, and opportunity. This programme’s focus on systemic transformation, collaboration, and co-production provided timely insights that complement the ongoing work in Cheshire West and Chester, including the SEND Strategy Plan and the newly formed SEND Strategy Partnership Board. Tap the link below to find out more.

Reflections on Leadership in SEND and Alternative Provision with the National Development Team for Inclusion (NDTI)

Book your Place Here!

Professional Updates & Engagement

New Cheshire and Merseyside neurodevelopment pathway, including the This is Me profiling tool to better support neurodivergent children and young people. Find out from the link below.

Neurodevelopment Pathway Update

Join the Conversation on School Uniforms!

Cheshire West & Chester are bringing together parents, carers, young people, schools, and organisations across Cheshire West to shape the future of school uniform policies, making them fair, affordable, and supportive for all families.

Upcoming Sessions – Choose the one that suits you:

Online: Thursday 3rd July, 12:30–1:30pm

Winsford (Wyvern House): Monday 7th July, 9:30–10:30am

Chester (HQ): Thursday 10th July, 2:30–3:30pm

Before joining, please take 5 minutes to complete our School Uniform Survey and share your views — even if you can’t attend a session!

Find Out More Here!

FREE support from Cheshire & Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (CWP NHS)

If your child attends a Mental Health Support School, you’re invited to join a series of supportive and friendly sessions this summer to help you understand and manage your child’s emotional wellbeing.

Various sessions across the borough over summer!

Please ask the providers if your school is signed up with them.

To find out more, email: cwp.cheshiremhstadmin@nhs.net

Koala North West’s Thriving Families programme offers one-to-one, tailored support for parents, carers, and children aged 0–19 (or up to 25 with SEND). Whether it's parenting guidance, mental well-being, or strengthening family relationships, we're here to assist you in a way that works best for you.

Find Out More Here!

Listening Ear service offers hour-long 1-1 telephone appointments with a family support adviser.

Where our helpline provides information and advice, Listening Ear is for parent carers looking for emotional support and reassurance – though we can provide practical help too.

Freephone telephone

Tel: 0808 808 3555

Open Monday to Friday, 9.30am-5pm.

Listening Ear Information here!

Preparation for Adulthood – Your One-Stop Padlet

A helpful, easy-to-use online noticeboard designed to support young people and their families in navigating post-16 services.

Whether you’re looking for information on education, employment, independent living, or health and wellbeing, this ‘one-stop shop’ Padlet brings together key resources, services, and guidance to make the journey to adulthood clearer and less overwhelming.

Preparation for Adulthood Padlet

Finding the right social opportunities and support for young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) can be a challenge. That’s why the Cheshire West and Chester Youth Service provides free, inclusive, and engaging youth provisions across the borough.

Find out More Here!

Need a Break? Carefree Can Help!

Through Carefree, hundreds of hotels across the country donate short stays to unpaid carers — giving you the chance to rest and recharge. You can book a 1–2 night hotel stay with a companion, at a time and place that suits you.

Find out more and book your break here!

Join Our Growing Team at the Parent Carer Forum – Vacancies Available
Are you a parent or carer of a child with additional needs or a disability in Cheshire West and Chester?

The Parent Carer Forum is looking for enthusiastic individuals to join our team!

Why Join Us?
Amplify Your Voice: Represent the perspectives of parents and carers in your school community. Your feedback will directly influence local services and SEND policies.

Make a Difference: Be part of a team that shapes positive changes for children and young people with SEND.

Flexibility: You can get involved at a pace that works for you—whether attending meetings, gathering parent feedback, or simply being a point of contact.