Lynne Featherstone MP last week attended a Christmas parliamentary reception hosted by the disability charity Scope, to mark their new campaign calling for better local services for disabled children and their families.

Taking centre stage during the reception was a giant Christmas tree adorned with handmade ‘wish stars’ decorated by members of the public and inscribed with messages to the MPs stating why supporting disabled children and their families matters.

Lynne Featherstone, Liberal Democrat MP for Hornsey and Wood Green, said:

“Families with disabled children often need support getting appropriate childcare, school places or healthcare.

“Scope does great work, offering practical support to families with disabled children. I have written to Edward Timpson MP, Minister in the Department of Education, on behalf of my constituents who have taken part in Scope’s campaign.

“The Children and Families Bill – currently passing through Parliament – will introduce a single, simpler assessment process for children with Special Education Needs or disabilities. These will be backed up by new Education, Health and Care Plans – as part of the biggest reforms to SEN provision in 30 years.”

Scope celebrity supporter and actress and comedienne Sally Phillips added:

“My eldest son has Down’s Syndrome so I have first-hand experience of how debilitating the fight can be to get necessary services for disabled children. I’m delighted to help promote Scope’s ‘Keep us Close’ campaign, and back its call for essential services for disabled children.”