As part of the Local Offer Live, PPV were really proud to host our first SEND Appreciation Awards.

The aim of these awards is to recognise local services and people across the city working, volunteering and supporting families and young people with SEND. The shortlist and winners were chosen by a panel of parent/carers, young people and professionals.

Congratulations to our winners!

Sarah Lehmkuehler, electoral services registration officer at Portsmouth City Council won the Co-production Award for her work in making voting accessible for young people with SEND. Co-production means listening to people’s ideas and experiences, and making changes based on what they say.

Enable Ability won the Support for Young People Award. They help people with severe disabilities as well as those whose needs are at a milder to moderate level. The group support approximately 500 children and adults in Portsmouth.

The Community Choice Award gave people in Portsmouth the chance to nominate someone who has gone the extra mile. There is no overall winner in this category. Instead, everyone who was nominated received a certificate to recognise their efforts.

For more information about Portsmouth SEND Local Offer, visit www.portsmouthlocaloffer.org.