Directory Search

Sheffield City Council Community Youth Services have a group called SENDing Voices.

Who are we:

A group of young people age from 13-24 years old who have Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND)

What we do:

The group come together to meet with their peers to discuss and share issues and challenges that they and other young people with SEND face on a day-to-day basis. In true youth work style, the sessions are fun, creative and engaging. The open and honest reflections are then fed back creatively to decision makers to influence change. 

How we do it:

Topics are identified either by the young people themselves or through our working relationships with our SCC colleagues and partners across the city. We will then collaborate with partners to develop the topic into creative fun sessions that are accessible and inclusive for the group members.

Examples of what we do:

1)     Coming soon- Animation films – the group wanted to address some of the barriers they face in education, so they have coproduced five short films for educational providers on the subjects of

• Acceptance
• Inclusion
• Communication
• Transitions
• Access

 2)     Children & Young People’s Rights – the group worked with Sheffield Hallam University researcher to give feedback on their views about what rights were important to young people with SEND and how professionals can support them.

When we meet: Every fortnight on a Wednesday 4.30pm – 6.30pm

Where we meet: Electric Works, 3 Concourse Way, Sheffield City Centre, S1 2BJ

These sessions are mainly in person, but some people attend online too, depending on what the young person prefers, or their needs are.

How young people can get involved:

• E-mail: kerry.doxey@sheffield.gov.uk 
• Phone: 07391 739 118

Kerry will then contact the young person and have a one-to-one chat before being invited to the group sessions. 

All the sessions and activities are free, travel expenses are reimbursed, and snacks and drinks are available at all sessions.

Recognition for taking part

Young people have the opportunity to take part in holiday activities, such as trips to The Deep – Hull, London, Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Laser Quest, Canal trip. 

Other opportunities include: 

• Work experience opportunities
• Wider youth work projects
• 121 support / referrals