SENDsational winners revealed in Portsmouth awards scheme

A new awards scheme recognising those who support families with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) announced its first winners at the John Pounds Centre on Thursday 6 November, as part of Portsmouth SEND Local Offer Live.

The Portsmouth SEND Appreciation Awards is a brand-new scheme that recognises the positive impact of individuals and groups across the city who support children and young people with SEND up to the age of 25 years old.

Organised by Portsmouth Parent Voice, the awards scheme raises the profile of services as well as awarding those who go above and beyond to help families.

Councillor Nick Dorrington, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at Portsmouth City Council said:

“It was an honour to hear the inspiring accounts of the shortlisted candidates and winners at the awards ceremony. It gave us a chance to pause and reflect on the immense contribution they all make to the lives of children and young people with additional needs in our community.

“I would like to thank everyone for their incredible efforts to support some of the city’s most vulnerable people.”

The Support for Young People Award and the Support for Families Award recognised organisations and teams who help young people and families. These awards highlighted the important work being done to support those who need it most.

The Co-production Award was given to services that work with families to improve what they offer. Co-production means listening to people’s ideas and experiences, and making changes based on what they say. It’s about working together so families feel involved and know their views matter.

The Community Choice Award gave people in Portsmouth the chance to nominate someone who has gone the extra mile. There is no overall winner in this category. Instead, everyone who was nominated received a certificate to recognise their efforts.

Enable Ability won the Support for Young People Award. They support people with severe disabilities as well as those whose needs are at a milder to moderate level. The group support approximately 500 children and adults in Portsmouth.

James Donougher, project leader at Enable Ability said:

“Winning this award is a tremendous honour and a powerful reflection of our commitment to supporting young people in Portsmouth.

“We’re deeply passionate about our work, and that passion shines through in the heartfelt nominations we’ve received. Their stories inspire us every day and remind us why it’s so important to be there when young people need us most.”

The awards were held as part of Portsmouth SEND Local Offer Live, a community event designed to connect families with services that support children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities.

With 28 exhibitors, including council services, community groups, and public health teams, attendees had access to a wide range of information and advice.

Two insightful talks about coping with big emotions and another on supporting parents and carers in managing anxiety in children helped deepen understanding of these important topics, making the event both informative and empowering.