Portsmouth has celebrated individuals and organisations supporting families with special educational needs and disabilities at the inaugural Portsmouth SEND Appreciation Awards, hosted at the John Pounds Centre during Portsmouth SEND Local Offer Live.
The new awards scheme, organised by Portsmouth Parent Voice, recognises those making a positive impact on children and young people with SEND up to age 25. Winners were selected by a panel comprising parents, carers, young people and professionals.
Councillor Nick Dorrington, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at Portsmouth City Council, said: “It was an honour to hear the inspiring accounts of the shortlisted candidates and winners at the awards ceremony. It gave us a chance to pause and reflect on the immense contribution they all make to the lives of children and young people with additional needs in our community.
“I would like to thank everyone for their incredible efforts to support some of the city’s most vulnerable people.”
Connors Toy Library received the Support for Families Award for lending over 10,000 toys to the community, helping children learn and develop through play.
Sarah Lehmkuehler, electoral services registration officer at Portsmouth City Council, won the Co-production Award for making voting accessible to young people with SEND. Co-production involves listening to people’s ideas and experiences and implementing changes based on their feedback.
Enable Ability claimed the Support for Young People Award. The organisation assists approximately 500 children and adults in Portsmouth with varying levels of disability, from severe to moderate needs.
James Donougher, project leader at Enable Ability, said: “Winning this award is a tremendous honour and a powerful reflection of our commitment to supporting young people in Portsmouth.
“We’re deeply passionate about our work, and that passion shines through in the heartfelt nominations we’ve received. Their stories inspire us every day and remind us why it’s so important to be there when young people need us most.”
The Community Choice Award allowed Portsmouth residents to nominate someone who has gone the extra mile. All nominees received certificates recognising their efforts rather than selecting an overall winner.
The awards ceremony formed part of Portsmouth SEND Local Offer Live, connecting families with support services. The event featured 28 exhibitors, including council services, community groups and public health teams, alongside talks on managing emotions and supporting parents with childhood anxiety.
