We’re pleased to announce the launch of The Big SEND Conversation – a London-wide workforce research programme led by the London Innovation & Improvement Alliance (LIIA) on behalf of the Association of London Directors of Children’s Services (ALDCS).
This programme brings together a workforce survey and a series of focus groups, designed to hear directly from the people who make SEND services work every day.
- Why are we doing this? The aim is simple: to inform change with not to the SEND workforce. We want to understand the realities of working in children’s SEND services, and your feedback will directly shape the priorities of the regional SEND Workforce Programme.
- Why now? SEND services are under significant pressure across the UK. With a Government White Paper expected in early 2026, this is a crucial moment for the workforce’s voice to influence upcoming reforms. Your insight matters; the more responses we receive, the greater the impact.
- Who is the SEND Workforce? The SEND workforce is diverse and multi-agency. Whether you work in a local authority, school, health organisation, or partner agency , and whether you are permanent, agency, or independent – we want to hear from you. The research is completely anonymised, and the survey questions will adapt to reflect your role.
- How can I take part? The research includes:
- A survey open to all members of the SEND workforce, including multi-agency partners
- A series of focus groups targeted to specific roles within the SEND workforce
- Why does your contribution matter? By taking part, you’re helping build a shared evidence base that will support local authorities and partners to improve how we recruit, support and retain the workforce. Findings will be shared directly with Central Government to influence national reforms – underlining the workforce as our greatest asset.