As a parent, fighting for your child can be an uphill battle, one that requires perseverance, dedication, and relentless drive. I have experienced this firsthand in striving to secure an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) for my son, Reggie. This journey took me through countless hurdles-speaking in Parliament, navigating complex pathways, and following every conceivable avenue to ensure that Reggie gets the attention and resources he needs. Yet here we are, with a legally binding EHCP, but an absence of specialised Early Years provision that puts my son’s developmental journey on hold.

In Gloucestershire, there is a glaring gap in specialist Early Years provision designed specifically to cater to children like Reggie. Mainstream settings, overstretched and under-resourced, are unable to meet his specialised needs, and there are no alternative specialist provisions available for children in their Early Years. This situation leaves Reggie, only three years old, without access to the crucial environment he requires-a place where he can socialize, learn, and grow.

The lack of available specialist Early Years provision is not just Reggie's problem; it affects many families in Gloucestershire struggling under the same circumstances. Our children are at the most critical stage of development, and delaying access to specialised education can have profound long-term effects on their social and educational outcomes. Research highlights the importance of early intervention, showing that children who receive appropriate early support are more likely to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally later in life.

We are calling on the local authorities and educational bodies to take immediate action to establish and fund specialist Early Years provision in Gloucestershire. This provision must be accessible, adequately staffed, and equipped to meet the diverse needs of children requiring specialist support. Integrating these services will bridge the current gap, ensuring that no child is left behind at such a formative age.

Please join me in urging the local authorities to address this critical issue and ensure that children like Reggie can access the specialist Early Years education they desperately need. Sign this petition to make sure that our voices are heard and that real change is enacted for the future of our children.