About US
WHO IS SNAP PCF
Who is SNAP?
SNAP PCF – By Parent Carers, For Parent Carers
SNAP PCF (Special Needs Action Panel, Parent Carer Forum) is a not-for-profit Community Interest Company. We are an independent, parent-led forum for families of children and young people (0–25) with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) who live in Central Bedfordshire.
Since 2013, we’ve been championing the voices of parent carers, growing a community of over 2,000 members. We use lived experience to influence education, health, and social care services, working in equal partnership with Central Bedfordshire Council, the Central East ICB and NHS services to improve outcomes for children and young people with SEND.
What We Do
- Represent parent carers’ voices by sharing real experiences with Central Bedfordshire Council, NHS services, and partner organisations
- Work in partnership by contributing to strategic boards and projects that shape and develop local SEND services
- Connect and support families through events, training, workshops, and online networks
- Empower parent carers with the knowledge and confidence to advocate for their children.
Our independence matters. Everything we do is rooted in lived experience we understand the challenges because we face them too. Whether you’re new to the SEND journey or have years of experience, SNAP PCF is here to listen, support, and make sure your voice helps shape the services our families need.
AIMS & vALUES
Mission
We work in partnership with Central Bedfordshire Council, Central East ICB, and local NHS services to co-produce better outcomes for families through meaningful collaboration and ensure our 6 C’s communication framework becomes embedded in practice across local SEND services. Our team of parent carers brings empathy, understanding, and a commitment to making a real difference.
Purpose
- Champion the voices of parent carers of children and young people (0–25) with SEND in Central Bedfordshire.
- Understand the needs, experiences, and strengths of local families.
- Through coproduction and parent participation work alongside Central Bedfordshire Council, and health partners to improve services and support across education, health and care.
Objectives
- Build strong, lasting partnerships with those planning and delivering services.
- Work alongside other Bedfordshire forums for greater shared impact.
- Make sure parent carers’ views shape services at every level.
- Have Parent Representatives on key decision-making boards.
- Grow a diverse and welcoming forum that reflects our whole community.
- Use family feedback to guide our priorities.
- Collaborate with the NNPCF Eastern Region to strengthen our voice.
Vision and Values
- Treat everyone with kindness, respect, and fairness.
- Listen actively and value every voice.
- Focus on positive change for all families—not individual cases.
- Create a space where challenge is respectful and support is strong.
- Encourage carers to take part in ways that feel right for them.
- Recognise and support Parent Representatives with training and fair reimbursement.