School support staff and parents groups will rally outside Leeds Civic Hall on Wednesday 20 March, calling for a radical overhaul of the special educational needs (SEND) provision.

Where: Leeds Civic Hall, Calverley Street, LS1 1UR

When: 10.45am, Wednesday 20 March 2024

Contact: Kat Fletcher 07966 453808 or email [email protected]

School support staff [1] and parents groups will rally outside Leeds Civic Hall calling for a radical overhaul of the special educational needs (SEND) provision.

The workers, who are on the frontline supporting children with additional needs in Leeds, will then take a formal deputation to the full council, who will then vote on SEND reforms.

GMB Union have been campaigning across the city to organise staff and parents alike, to fight for safe staffing levels, fair pay, and proper staff development.

James Wilton, SEND worker and GMB Rep, said: 

“Special Educational Support in Leeds, and across the country, is in crisis and as a result children and their families are suffering. 

 “I hear daily stories from GMB members who are beyond despair, working in unsafe environments for both children and staff.

 “They are consistently asked to take on more and more work for no more pay and offered no opportunities for the future. 

 “GMB believes Leeds Council should take the lead on the radical transformation of SEND provision by investing in its staff and school safety.

 “We call upon all councillors to join our rally, sign our pledge for SEND reform and support our deputation.” 

Media enquiries:

ENDS

Media enquiries: GMB Press Office on 07958 156846 or at [email protected]

Notes to Editors:

[1] Support staff will be available for interview.