We recently received this announcement from Suffolk Parent Carer Forum and wanted to pass it on to all Parent Carers. We are sad to see them go but look forward to working with replacement organisation and will pass on details as soon as we can..
It is with great sadness that we announce the closure of Suffolk Parent Carer Forum due to circumstances beyond the Trustees control. This includes not being able to receive the funding that enables us to continue to be the Department of Education funded forum.
We are extremely sorry that we have been unable to make a public statement earlier, which is due to procedures, some of which are confidential, that needed to be followed.
We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved together and grateful to everyone who has supported us throughout our journey. While much progress has been made, we recognise that there is still a long way to go to ensure that all children and young people with SEND, and their families, receive the services and support to which they are legally entitled.
We remain committed to the principle that parent carers’ voices should be heard, respected and valued. A new forum is currently being established, and we wish those involved every success in continuing this important work.
We look forward to sharing details of the new forum as soon as we are able. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please contact Contact, who may be able to assist.
The charity is now entering a formal winding-up process, with the Charity Commission fully informed throughout. Redundancy notices have been issued to staff, and any remaining funding will be returned to funders upon closure.
The Trustees are working diligently to ensure that all legal, financial and governance responsibilities are fulfilled appropriately. As part of this process, we feel it is important to clarify that the Trustees have always served on a voluntary basis and have never received payment for their time, work or commitment to the charity. It is therefore particularly disappointing that inaccurate and damaging allegations have been circulated, causing significant distress to those who have dedicated their time freely in support of parent carers and their families.
Despite these challenges, we remain proud of the charity’s achievements and the difference it has made to many families across Suffolk.
Thank you for being part of our journey and for your support over the years.
SPCF Board of Trustees
