SEND Navigators Service

---

Your guide to SEND support in Central Bedfordshire

At SNAP Parent Carer Forum, we know that the start of a SEND journey can feel overwhelming.

Many families tell us:

"I don't know where to start."

"There is so much information, I don't know what is relevant."

"I'm waiting for support, but don't know what I should be doing now."

"I wish someone could help me understand my next steps."

That's why we are excited to share plans for a new SEND Navigator Service for Central Bedfordshire. What are SEND Navigators?

SEND Navigators is a proposed new service designed to help parent carers who are at the start of their journey navigate the SEND system and understand the support available for their child or young person. The service is being developed by SNAP Parent Carer Forum as part of the wider Central Bedfordshire SEND Reform Programme and the proposed Experts at Hand model. 

The aim is simple: 

To help families feel informed, connected and confident, think Google Maps for SEND. What Support Could Be Available?

SEND Navigators will aim to provide:

🧭 Information and guidance

🔍 Help understanding available services

🤝 Signposting to local support

📋 Practical next steps and action planning

☕ Community drop-ins and workshops

💡 Support to build confidence navigating the SEND journey

The service is intended to support families at the earliest possible stage; this is for families whose children are at SEND Support, we are the step before SENDIASS who support with school visits and EHCP's.

Why is this Service Being Developed?

The Central Bedfordshire Local SEND Reform Plan recognises the importance of earlier intervention, improved access to support and stronger partnership working.As part of the proposed Experts at Hand model, Parent Navigators delivered by SNAP Parent Carer Forum will provide a dedicated route of support for families, helping them understand available services, navigate the SEND system and access support at the earliest possible stage.

Current Status:

We are awaiting confirmation of funding and implementation arrangements.

The SEND Navigator Service forms part of the proposed Central Bedfordshire SEND Reform Programme and has been referenced within publicly available SEND Reform papers. Whilst plans are progressing positively, the service cannot formally launch until funding and implementation arrangements have been confirmed. 

We will share further updates as soon as they become available. 

Guiding Families. Connecting Support. Building Confidence.

Delivered by SNAP Parent Carer Forum
Parents Supporting Parents