UNFORTUNATELY, by the time readers see this the deadline for the Parliamentary Inquiry into Special Educational Needs will be very near October 3.

Equally unfortunate is the lack of publicity about this. It is an ideal opportunity for anyone with an interest to have an input towards a report that will make an impact on policies that affect what is experienced, for the young person, the parent/carer, and the school.

Some of the areas of the inquiry are: Provision for SEN pupils in "mainstream" schools availability of resources and expertise; provision for SEN pupils in special schools; the system of statements of need for SEN pupils; the role of parents in decisions about their children's education.

Full details about this inquiry can be accessed through www.vips-in-sen.co.uk a re-launched website that has now become an easy locator source of reference that will be of use to parents/carers, teachers, governors, and other interested parties alike. This has information in a summary format, with access to full details and documents, covering a wide range of areas for help, advice, support and information.

There is still a little time left to provide a contribution to a crucial and complex issue, that has a wide impact not just on education, but the community in general.

Trevor Clarke, Voice of Independent Parents in Special Educational Needs, London