Statement welcoming SEN and Disability Tribunal settlements

Statement from the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People, Koulla Yiasouma, on the settlement of Special Educational Needs (SEN) and Disability Tribunals:

‘I very much welcome the successful outcome of these Tribunal settlements and the support that the Equality Commission have provided to the young people and their families. It is important not only for these families, but for other families who find themselves in similar situations in future.

‘The UNCRC makes it very clear that every child and young person has the right to an education that meets their individual needs, so they have the opportunity to reach their full potential. Children with a disability also have a right not be discriminated against.

‘Today’s announcement reaffirms this and is a reminder for agencies who provide services for children and young people on meeting their statutory duties.

‘We know from the work of our Legal and Investigations team that SEN is consistently one of the issues we get most enquires about, and we offer advice and advocacy in addition to representation at SENDIST.

‘The Tribunal settlements also highlight the importance of all organisations working together in partnership, to deliver the best outcome for children and young people.’

ENDS

Notes to Editors

• You can read the Equality Commission press release here.
• For more information and to bid for interviews, please contact Andrew McGall, Communications Officer on Communications@niccy.org, 028 9031 1616 or mobile – 07917 544 177.
• The Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People was established in 2003 by the Assembly and Parliament to: “safeguard and promote the rights and best interests of children and young people”.