CHILDREN with special educational needs and disabilities will soon receive support in a completely different way.

The biggest shake up in 30 years will see education, health and social care services working together to deliver a comprehensive programme of care for each individual.

An event was held at CRMZ youth centre in Kingsway, Widnes to explain the changes to parents and carers.

The Government reform affects all schools, colleges and training providers.

From September, the system of statements of special educational needs for children and young people aged under 25 with complex needs will be replaced with education, health and care plans.

Halton Clr Ged Philbin, board member for children, young people and families, said: “The changes will mean that services will be working even more together to improve outcomes for our young people.”

Young carers who belong to the ‘Spoken and Heard’ group helped to plan the event and organised their own workshop where families could ask questions and seek advice.

Halton Council has received £142,150 Government funding to prepare for the transition.

A Halton Council spokesman said: “The money will support an extensive training programme. We hosted a major conference for colleagues across the education sector and other training is planned for social care services.

“We have contributed towards training taking place in health.

“Funding will help us upgrade computer systems to support all of the new processes.

“Halton is making good progress towards implementing the reforms. There has been extensive consultation with families and young people and this will be maintained to promote parental engagement.”