Mum Struggles with Sons Attending Separate SEND Schools
A devoted mother, Hannah Dervisoglu, finds herself in a heart-wrenching predicament as her two sons with special needs are placed in separate SEND schools located 10 miles apart. The challenges she faces in juggling the education and well-being of both her children highlight the difficulties that many families with special needs children encounter when navigating the education system.
The Daily Struggle of Balancing Two Different Schools
Hannah’s daily routine involved taking her son, Atlas, to Wargrave special needs school in Newton-le-Willows while ensuring her other son attended Sherdley primary school in Sutton. This delicate balance was disrupted when Atlas, diagnosed with autism and ADHD, was removed from mainstream schooling at Sherdley towards the end of the previous academic year. The responsibility then fell on the council to find alternative SEND provision for Atlas, leading to the offer of a placement at the private Willow Tree Park school in Lymm.
The distance between the two schools presents a logistical nightmare for Hannah, who finds herself torn between the needs of her two sons. Despite the council’s efforts to secure appropriate placements for children with special educational needs, the lack of specialist providers in the area and limited spaces pose significant challenges. As a result, Hannah is left grappling with the impossible task of being in two places at once, unable to physically transport both her sons to their respective schools.
The Impact on Family Dynamics and Emotional Well-being
The emotional toll of this situation is evident in Hannah’s account of her son, Atlas, who feels isolated and confused by his inability to attend school like his older brother, Odin. The psychological impact of being unable to participate in the normal routines of school life takes a toll on Atlas, leading to feelings of inadequacy and unworthiness. Hannah’s anguish at witnessing her son’s distress is palpable, as she grapples with the guilt of not being able to provide him with the same opportunities as his sibling.
The lack of appropriate transport options further exacerbates the family’s predicament, leaving Hannah and Atlas stranded at home while Odin continues his education at his respective school. The financial strain of having to take time off work to care for Atlas adds another layer of stress to an already fraught situation. Hannah’s frustration at the bureaucratic hurdles preventing her son from accessing the education he deserves is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by families with special needs children.
The Council’s Response and Ongoing Efforts
In response to Hannah’s plight, a spokesperson for St Helens Council acknowledges the challenges faced by families in securing suitable special school placements for children with special educational needs and disabilities. The increasing demand for specialist education and Education, Health, and Care Plans has outstripped capacity in local schools, necessitating a broader search for placements in neighboring boroughs.
The council is actively working to bridge this gap by expanding numbers across all special schools, increasing provision in mainstream schools, and collaborating with neighboring boroughs to provide additional support. The commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for children with special needs is commendable, but the reality of navigating the complex web of services and support remains a daunting task for families like Hannah’s.
As Atlas continues to wait for a resolution to his schooling situation, the emotional toll on him and his family deepens. The uncertainty surrounding his education and future prospects weighs heavily on Hannah, who is determined to advocate for her son’s rights and ensure that he receives the support he needs to thrive. The resilience and courage displayed by Hannah in the face of adversity serve as a potent reminder of the unwavering love and dedication that parents of special needs children embody every day.