The
Independent Parental Supporter (IPS)
All parents have access, at this earlier point, should they wish it, to an Independent Parental Supporter (IPS). This is a central component of the Service and should be flexible in its delivery. It replaces and extends the role of the Named Person in the original SEN Code of Practice. Independent Parental Supporters are trained and supported volunteers who will come from a wide range of backgrounds. Training and ongoing development will be essential if their role is to be effective and valued by parents. They will:
- provide a range of information, guidance and advice;
- support parents at meetings and with meeting preparation (with schools/ professionals);
- help parents to produce their own information about their child, complete questionnaires, write letters, and to give a parental perspective;
- talk through things informally and be a listening ear;
- put parents in touch with other agencies (voluntary, advisory, support groups, etc);
- help, support, advise parents through the statutory assessment process for their child if/when this becomes necessary;
- help in understanding the implications of any objectives set out in the statement;
- give information and advice about the SEN Tribunal and Disagreement Resolution arrangements.
- take over and talk for parents;
- make decisions/judgements on behalf of parents;
- become a family counsellor/supporter;
- represent parents at SEN Tribunals.
What Do We Look For In Our IPS Volunteers?The volunteer must:
- be sensitive in dealing with confidential issues
- have good communication skills
- be reliable
- be enthusiastic and friendly
- be interested in the issues surrounding children with additional/special educational needs
- have an interest and motivation in helping to support the parents of such children
- be a good listener
- have completed our Independent Parental Supporters Initial training course.
How
Do I Become An IPS?You can become an Independent Parental Supporter by:
- Completing the application form and naming two referees.
- Completing the Independent Parental Supporter initial training course.
- Arranging a confidential discussion with the Parent Partnership Co-ordinator to clarify roles and responsibilities and to establish the weekly time you can commit to the role and particular areas of strength or interest in the overall field of SEN.
- Undertaking to attend 3 support meetings a year for IPS which will include training.
- Undertake to work to the agreed Standards laid out in the Somerset IPS Handbook.
For further information contact Trisha Smith on 01823 355578 or by e-mail at enquiries@somersetparentpartnership.org.uk.