Plans to establish five early years inclusion hubs in Dudley borough have been approved following a period of consultation.

Dudley Council has pledged to support nursery aged children who have higher support needs by establishing a more locally based model across five localities.

As part of the process, the local authority undertook a statutory consultation in June.

Offering personalised, targeted and specialist interventions for children and families, the network of hubs will have staffing capacity that meets the needs of children with special educational needs.

A procurement process for the hubs has recommenced, with children expected to start their new placements by autumn half term. Councillor Ruth Buttery, cabinet member for children’s services and education, said:

“This exciting and important work will enable more children with additional needs to access more support and provision in their local community.

“We would like to thank the parents, carers and providers who took part in the consultation process, their feedback has been invaluable in helping us to take the next steps in our vision to make improvements in education for children with SEND.

“Children and families will continue to be supported by their early years providers and respective families will be contacted to discuss transition arrangements where applicable.”

For further information people can view the council’s decision sheet online.

Parents and carers can contact the early years team on 01384 814364 for additional advice or support.