LOCAL OFFER LIVE RETURNS TO CURVE FOR FOURTH YEAR

A free event for families who have a child with disabilities or special educational needs (SEND) will take place at Curve in Leicester tomorrow.

The award-winning event, Local Offer Live, will be held at the theatre on Wed 23 Jan from 9am-5pm, with exhibition stalls, activities and performances filling Curve’s spaces.

Now in its fourth year, the completely free day is organised by Curve, Leicester City Council and the Leicester City Parent Carer Forum and showcases the support available to those with SEND, their parents, carers and professionals.

Chris Stafford, Chief Executive and Nikolai Foster, Artistic Director of Curve said: “Since the first event four years ago, Local Offer Live has become a highlight in our calendar. It’s fantastic to share our space with young people finding out vital information, alongside the people and organisations whose incredible work benefits so many in our community.

“Accessibility for all is key to us here at Curve and we believe everyone should have access to high quality arts and culture. With exhibitions, performances and workshops, this event is an extraordinary and engaging showcase of the support offered in Leicester and Leicestershire.”

Cllr Sarah Russell, Leicester’s deputy city mayor responsible for children, young people and schools, said: “Families who have children with special needs and disabilities need to know what help and support is available for them locally, and Local Offer Live gives them the ideal chance to find out.

“A wide variety of local services will be offering information at the event, on everything from financial, educational and practical support to opportunities for getting involved in creative and arts activities.”

The Local Offer Live event brings to life the details on local support and services available on the Local Offer website families.leicester.gov.uk/send-local-offer.

Glenn Sutton of the Leicester City Parent Carer  Forum, which has organised the event in partnership with Curve and the city council, said: “We know first-hand what parents and carers need, so we’re very pleased to be involved with organising this event. As well as showcasing a range of different groups that can help provide support, I hope Local Offer Live will give us the chance to talk to lots of people about our own work and how we can help.”

Events and activities at Local Offer Live will include an arts and crafts workshop, music and entertainment and a Cajon drumming session. Five special schools will also be putting on performances in the studio.

To find out more about the event click here.