Shropshire Star

'It is heartbreaking': Parents in poignant Shrewsbury protest over education for children with special educational needs

Shropshire parents have taken part in a poignant gesture as they campaign for improvements to education for children with special needs and disabilities.

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Supporting image for story: 'It is heartbreaking': Parents in poignant Shrewsbury protest over education for children with special educational needs
Nicola Noel places a pair of shoes as part of the campaign outside Guildhall in Shrewsbury.

Families from across Shropshire placed shoes outside the headquarters of Shropshire Council at Guildhall in Shrewsbury.

The gestures were part of the 'Every Pair Tells a Story' campaign, a national movement organised by The SEND Sanctuary UK in partnership with Let Us Learn Too and Let’s Make a Difference.

The shoes were placed by parents who feel their child has been failed by the education system and their local authority.

Nicola Noel places a pair of shoes as part of the campaign outside Guildhall in Shrewsbury. Photo: Tim Thursfield
Nicola Noel places a pair of shoes as part of the campaign outside Guildhall in Shrewsbury. Photo: Tim Thursfield

Nicola Noel, 29, from Craven Arms, was one of the parents helping volunteer at the event.

She spoke of her child's own difficulties with accessing appropriate support and education, saying she has been unable to attend school for around 16 months.

She said: "It meant a lot to volunteer because my daughter has been failed for 16 months so far, with no education whatsoever."

Councillor George Hollyhead viewing the shoes on display.
Councillor George Hollyhead viewing the shoes on display. Photo: Tim Thursfield