We are delighted to announce that Special Educational Needs Families Support Group (SENFSG) have received the King’s Award for Voluntary Service. This is the highest award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK and is equivalent to an MBE. SENFSG are a grassroots, needs-led, unique and independent network, of impassioned people that provide interventions guidance and practical help.
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service aims to recognise outstanding work by local volunteer groups to benefit their communities. It was created in 2002 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee and, following his accession, His Majesty The King emphasised his desire to continue the Award.
Recipients are announced annually on 14th November, The King’s Birthday. Award winners this year are wonderfully diverse and include volunteer groups from across the UK.
The Special Educational Needs Families Support Group charity was developed over 30 years ago through despair of individuals and families that were desperate for help and understanding. The complexity of Special Educational Needs (SEN) laws is overwhelming to the majority of parents who contacted SENFSG, they often felt isolated and fearful for their children's futures.
SENFSG are now working with the third generation. They have been instrumental in changing national and local policies, developed additional charities and support groups, empowered young people and adults to take an active part in securing school and college placements. We have also supported apprenticeships and helped people find accommodation.
The award is for the thousands of children and young people with SEN and their families that we have supported. It is also for the unselfish and dedicated volunteers that are impassioned to make a positive difference to the lives of every person and child they help. The award recognises the outstanding services the Special Educational Needs Families Support Group repeatedly deliver. The audit was rigorous and intensive, and SENFSG were amazed to be nominated and never imagined that they would win this award given the thousands of other volunteer organisations that are established .
Representatives of Special Educational Needs Families Support Group will receive the award crystal and certificate from the Lancashire Lord-Lieutenant’s Mrs Amanda Parker, DL, as His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant for the County of Lancashire.
In addition, two volunteers from the Special Educational Needs Families Support Group will attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace in May/June 2024, along with other recipients of this year’s Award. Volunteers will be invited to a garden party at Holyrood house in July 2024.