NEW CENTRAL SUPPORT LINE FOR PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS

Carla Lockhart MP • February 5, 2025

Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart has welcomed the nee support line for Special Educational Needs children. Parents and carers of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) often face significant challenges in accessing the right support for their child’s education. In a welcome step forward, the Education Authority has launched a new central contact number, making it easier for families to get the assistance they need. 

The SEND Central helpline, available on 028 9031 7777, will connect callers directly to key services: 



- Press 1 for Statutory Assessment Review Service (SARS) 

- Press 2 for SEND Advice and Information 

- Press 3 for SEND Support Services 


The helpline will operate Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM. 


Welcoming the introduction of this new service, Carla Lockhart, MP for Upper Bann, said: 


"For too long, parents and carers of children with special educational needs have struggled to get clear and timely guidance from the Education Authority. I know from speaking to families in Upper Bann that the process can often feel overwhelming, with delays and confusion about who to contact for help.


This new central contact number is a step in the right direction. It should make it easier for parents to get the information and support they need without being passed from one department to another. However, I will continue to monitor how effectively it works in practice, ensuring that it delivers real improvements for families.


If any parents in Upper Bann experience difficulties accessing the support they need, please do not hesitate to contact me. I am here to help and will continue to fight for better SEND provision for local families."


Share

DAERA Farm Investment Scheme a missed opportunity to combat rural crime

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 28, 2026
DUP Agriculture spokesperson Carla Lockhart MP has urged farmers and rural communities to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity following a recent spate of thefts targeting farms across Northern Ireland.

Lockhart criticises DAERA plans for £2m on-farm TB biosecurity advice service

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 22, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has criticised DAERA's plans to press ahead with a multi-million pound tender for the provision of an on-farm bovine TB biosecurity advice service.

MP invites DEFRA Secretary to Upper Bann and sets out priorities for UK agri-food sector

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 22, 2026
DUP Agriculture spokesperson Carla Lockhart MP has written to newly appointed DEFRA Secretary Dame Angela Eagle, requesting a meeting and inviting her to visit Northern Ireland to hear directly from farmers, businesses and industry leaders in Upper Bann.

MP urging Prime Minister to restore confidence across UK farming sector

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 22, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has written to new Prime Minister Andy Burnham, urging him to place agriculture and national food security at the centre of his Westminster Government's agenda.

Lockhart commends community spirit at Killicomaine Fun Day and bonfire celebrations

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the outstanding community spirit on display during a visit to the Killicomaine Fun Day, commending local volunteers and bonfire builders for their dedication in bringing the community together ahead of the Twelfth celebrations.

Lockhart welcomes confirmation of Mill Hill speed ramp replacement

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed confirmation from the Department for Infrastructure that a missing speed ramp on Mill Hill, Waringstown, will be reinstated following representations she made on behalf of concerned local residents.

Lockhart congratulates Waringstown Neighbourhood Watch on 20 years of community service

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has paid tribute to Waringstown Neighbourhood Watch as the organisation marked its 20th anniversary, praising its volunteers for two decades of dedication to keeping the village safe. 

Lockhart praises community spirit at South Lurgan Eleventh celebrations

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the organisers of a successful Eleventh of July Fun Day and Tea Dance in Lurgan, commending the outstanding community spirit on display ahead of the annual Twelfth celebrations.

Lockhart celebrates strong community spirit as thousands marked the Glorious Twelfth

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the tremendous turnout and community spirit displayed across Northern Ireland as thousands gathered to mark the Glorious Twelfth.

Lockhart praises record crowds at Royal Black Institution Demonstration in Scarva

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has hailed this year’s Royal Black Institution Demonstration at Scarva as a resounding success, describing it as a powerful celebration of faith, culture and community following record-breaking attendance.