Dingley’s Promise

“A vital part of the community,” Dingley's Promise has supported local children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and their families since 1983.

Over the years the charity has grown and adapted to changing needs, offering inclusion and accessibility for all, said its nominator for Charity of the Year, sponsored by Reading Today.

The national picture shows increasing levels of need, with 14.2 per cent of pupils with SEN support in England, up from 13.6 per cent in 2024 with the expansion of their specialist work more important than ever.

The charity said last year they supported more than 100 families with targeted ‘learn through play’ sessions for children and outreach support for parents, and supported hundreds more through community partnerships and initiatives.

“The success of our specialist support relies on collaborative working within our community.”

Work includes:

● Inspiring the future early years professionals through placements and support for Reading College and University of Reading.

● Educating professionals in mainstream education on supporting children with SEND through inclusive practice strategies and a tailored approach.

● Connecting with family forums to support and advise families who may have identified developmental delays in their child and are seeking reassurance and signposting.

● Connecting with local businesses who can share the local impact of the charity through awareness and fundraising events.

● Building strong and impactful relationships with Hilton Reading, Vodafone, RSM Legal and more.

● Investing in relationships within the Local Sensory Consortium including the Dingley Development Centre, specialist health services and local charities.

● Realising the benefits of a joined up approach to create the best possible team around the child.