Barnsley Council has hosted the town's first Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Awards Ceremony to recognise the achievements of children and young people with SEND and the adults who support them.
The ceremony, run by Barnsley's Disabled Children's Service, welcomed over 100 children and young people, their families and professionals. Nominees were recognised across 10 categories, with a winner and runner-up selected for each.
What the awards recognised
The ceremony shone a light on progress, inclusion and the everyday achievements of SEND children and young people. Adult award winners were also celebrated for their roles in supporting children and families.
The event included entertainment and celebration activities: a red carpet walk, face painting, a photo booth, buffet, visits from Spiderman and Elsa from Frozen, and a disco with a bubble machine. A highlight was the awards presentation, where children and young people cheered each other on as they received their awards.
Parents and carers speak
One parent said: "It was so lovely to see everyone together celebrating differences of our children. Giving them their own awards experience was very special as they often get overlooked in mainstream events."
Another parent commented: "My son has such low confidence and self-esteem. It's been lovely to see him so proud of himself and feeling like he matters."
Council response
Cllr Gary Hall, Cabinet Spokesperson for Children's Services, said: "We want everyone in Barnsley with SEND, and their supporters to feel heard, valued and included. We will keep listening to them and their families, breaking down barriers and helping them get the right support to reach their goals."
Cllr Hall added: "The SEND Awards celebrated the incredible achievements, resilience and determination of our SEND children who each have their own unique story to tell. I'd like to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who goes above and beyond to support our children and young people on their journey and make such a difference."