We need your help to ensure that every neurodivergent child is identified in primary school and receives the support they need and deserve to thrive. The Neurodivergent Conditions (Screening and Teacher Training) Bill, originally introduced by Matt Hancock, aimed to achieve this goal.
However, with Matt Hancock stepping down, the bill needs a new champion.
By writing to your local MP, you can play a crucial role in encouraging them to propose this vital bill as their own Private Member's Bill. Below, you will find a template letter that you can use to reach out to your MP. Your support is essential to make a difference in the lives of countless children.
Template letter:
'Dear [MP's name],
I hope this letter finds you well. As one of your constituents, I am writing to urge you to consider proposing the Neurodivergent Conditions (Screening and Teacher Training) Bill as your own Private Member's Bill. This crucial Bill, originally introduced by Matt Hancock, aimed to ensure that every neurodivergent child is identified in primary school and receives the support they need and deserve to thrive at school and in later life.
The original Neurodivergent Conditions Bill had already gathered cross-party support and sought to introduce neurodivergent screening in all primary schools. An essential point to note is that, as opposed to just screening for one condition, this Bill seeks to ensure all neurodivergent conditions are screened for. As neurodivergent conditions commonly co-occur, this comprehensive approach is vital. Whether a child is showing traits commonly associated with dyslexia, autism, ADHD, dyscalculia, or any other neurodivergent condition, the passing of this Bill will ensure complete learner profiles are understood and children properly supported.
Presently, only 1 in 5 children leave school with their dyslexia identified. Furthermore, current socio-economic statistics show that children in the upper classes of society are twice as likely to have their dyslexia identified by age 16 as those in the working classes. Shockingly, children with identified Special Educational Needs (SEN) account for almost half (46.7 percent) of all permanent exclusions from school, while a government report found that more than four in ten (42 percent) UK prisoners had been permanently excluded from school. Support and screening should be available to all children, regardless of class. This Bill looks to change these concerning statistics, and your support in proposing it will enable all children to learn and reach their potential.
I urge you to propose this Bill on behalf of all neurodivergent people in your constituency and ensure that it progresses through Parliament successfully.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to receiving your response.
Kind regards,
[name and postcode]'
You can find out who your local MP is and their email address via this webpage: https://members.parliament.uk/members/commons
Thanks so much your support.Â
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