A three-week inspection in October 2024 assessed education, health, and social care services for children and young people with SEND across the borough, and received the highest rating from Ousted and the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Inspectors praised a ‘genuine shared determination’ among Rotherham Council and its partners to ensure children and young people with SEND are happy, successful, and thriving.

Rotherham’s SEND arrangements were rated as typically leading to positive outcomes for children and young people, meaning the services won’t need another inspection for five years.

The report highlighted ‘swift and accurate identification of most SEND needs’, along with ‘high levels of enjoyment in mainstream schools and specialist provisions’.

Inspectors noted that children and young people with SEND are valued and visible within their communities, reflecting the strong culture of inclusion in the area.

The collaborative approach of Rotherham Council, NHS South Yorkshire, and the Rotherham Parent Carers Forum was commended for delivering ‘effective support’.

The Parent Carers Forum was specifically praised for its compassionate advocacy and partnership in shaping SEND services through the Four Cornerstones framework.

While two areas for improvement were identified—varying quality of EHC plans and delays in neurodevelopmental diagnoses—leaders welcomed the opportunity to address these issues.

Councillor Victoria Cusworth said the report reflects ‘significant improvements in SEND services’ while ‘reaffirming the commitment to further enhancement’.

Strategic Director Nicola Curley and NHS South Yorkshire Deputy Chief Executive Chris Edwards highlighted ongoing progress and the importance of building on the report’s findings.

Further information about SEND services in Rotherham is available on the Rotherham SEND Local Offer website.