Turning survey analysis for Parent Carer Forums into support for SEND families

Parent Carer Forums (PCFs) bring together parents and carers of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in every local authority in England. 

More than 150 forums now belong to the National Network of Parent Carer Forums (NNPCF), and many of them rely on surveys to capture lived experiences and the challenges that SEND families face.

We’ve had the opportunity to help enable Parent Carer Forums to turn these surveys into clear evidence that can be used to help bring meaningful change. 

Our most recent work with West Northamptonshire Voices in Partnership has been published on their website. You can read it here: ‘Independent annual survey report’.

OCSI’s approach to survey analysis for Parent Carer Forums

We have developed a tailored approach to survey analysis after working with a number of different PCFs, each with different needs. Our approach centres both qualitative and quantitative analysis to create a narrative from hundreds of comments and responses.

Our focus is on the following:

• Highlighting key themes and concerns to surface what matters most to families.
• Quantifying trends that best show where things are improving or where more attention is needed.
• Providing evidence for change. By creating clear, data-driven reports, we give forums evidence to use in discussions with local authorities and service providers.

To do this, we combine our knowledge of place-based data with qualitative coding of open text responses. This analysis can then be used to help ensure that the voices of parents and carers aren’t lost in the numbers, when shared with a wider audience.

The impact of PCF survey analysis

After working with PCF West Northamptonshire Voices in Partnership (WNVP), we wanted to learn more about the impact it has had within their organisation and in their wider work.

They told us that the survey analysis had been “absolutely invaluable”.

“The data and insights provided have directly informed policies, shaped future planning, and supported West Northamptonshire in implementing meaningful change. 

It has helped us translate the lived experience of our members into evidence, strengthening our voice when working with local authorities and decision-makers.”

Next steps

We’re excited to continue developing our approach to PCF survey analysis, and supporting more Parent Carer Forums in the months ahead. 

If you’re part of a Parent Carer Forum and would like to find out more about how we can support your annual survey, please get in touch.

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