How Local Offer Live Helps Portsmouth’s SEND Community Thrive

This week, we went along to Local Offer Live with Dynamite and Gig Buddies, and what a brilliant day it turned out to be. This annual event brings together families, organisations and services from across Portsmouth to share what's available for people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

It's the third year Dynamite has been involved, and over time, these events have really helped grow their presence in the city. They've built great connections with teams like CAMHS, SENDIASS, and Portsmouth City Council's neurodiversity team. 

Vicky Hodson, one of the organisers from Portsmouth City Council, shared, "It's got a real buzz about it. Everyone here has the same purpose: to connect services, support families, and make sure people know what's out there."

Dynamite has since been able to link up with KIDS and will be co-leading a workshop in July about participation and co-production. It's part of a city-wide inclusive event focused on bringing people together to ensure young people with SEND feel included in local decision-making.

When asked how it feels to represent young people with SEND, Emma, a former Dynamites member turned volunteer, shared, "I feel very proud! It's nice to get out and speak up for people with learning disabilities." Dynamite's Coordinator Michelle added, "The change in Emma has been amazing. At the start, she didn't speak much, but now she's found her voice, and she's using it!"

Stephen says to anyone thinking about getting involved in a project like Gig Buddies or Dynamite, "Just do it! It's really useful and really fun. I finally have a voice, after not having one for so many years. It's nice to make a difference."

Many families attending shared that they had discovered services they hadn't come across before. Events like this can be a crucial starting point, especially for those who may feel isolated or unsure of where to turn.