Inquiry into Leeds services for disabled children

A cross-party scrutiny panel met today to discuss the latest stage of the wide-ranging investigation.

Among the issues raised was improving volunteering and internship opportunities, and a need to keep track of youngsters’ progress after they reach the age of 25.

Support mechanisms for parents and families of special needs youngsters were also put under the spotlight.

The panel was told that “giving young people the tools, resilience and skills they need” is vital and that “it’s really important that people have a reason to get up in the morning.”

A report to the panel said: “There is a range of high quality learning and support available in Leeds for young people with special education needs and disabilities.

“It is recognised, however, that greater emphasis needs to be placed on the life outcomes for young people and how these can best be developed and secured.”