Council calls for the views of families on new Parent Carer Support Pathway to assess support needs

Warwickshire County Council is currently undertaking a review of its parent carer support pathway so wants to hear from parents who care for children and young people, under the age of 18, with additional needs.

A five-week consultation on proposals for changes to the current process launches on Monday 6th January via  www.warwickshire.gov.uk/ask

Currently families eligible for support following assessment receive a payment toward support they may choose. However, the council has acknowledged that this may not be best for all families and is seeking views on more flexible options which may help more people in more meaningful and long-lasting ways.

The consultation proposals were shaped following engagement with a number of Warwickshire parents and incorporate the opinions shared during these conversations.

Warwickshire County Councillor Jeff Morgan, Portfolio Holder for Children and Families said:

“We are consulting on this assessment process to ensure we are offering the right support at the right time to all Warwickshire families with children who may have additional needs. Every parent/carer in this situation has the right to an assessment and not enough people are exercising this entitlement.

“We know that one size does not fit all and the current system is not the best approach for everyone. I would urge all parent carers to complete the consultation or attend the public meeting to have their say. In order to successfully build our needs assessment around the real experiences of individuals, sharing ideas and thoughts is crucial.”

For those who can’t complete the consultation online, a copy can be obtained at parentcarerconsult@warwickshire.gov.uk or by calling (01926 415106) for assistance.

The final version of the review with recommendations will be presented to Warwickshire County Council’s Cabinet on 17th April 2020.