Our vision and ambition for better belonging
At the core of our inclusion strategy is the ambition of better belonging. Belonging enables us to feel confident, being personally respected, included, and supported by others, enabling us to be empowered across our full range of skills, abilities and potential.
Our sense of belonging is more than just an acquaintance between people or a group, it stems from being seen, accepted, and feeling connected.
From being supported by others and doing the same for them, having our presence and contributions valued, from everyone, including friends, family, agencies, educational settings, and the community.
Belonging is more than just inclusion; it is personal and different for each child or young person and should foster a sense of psychological safety, authenticity, and mutual respect.
Children and young people should feel safe to express themselves without fear of judgment or retaliation. This is key in teams and organisations where innovation and collaboration thrive.
- children and young people should be encouraged to be their true selves, rather than conforming to a dominant culture or hiding aspects of their identity
- belonging improves when systems are fair—when opportunities, recognition, and resources are distributed equitably
- strong relationships and a sense of shared purpose help people feel they truly belong, not just that they’re present
- people feel they have a say in decisions that affect them and that their perspectives are genuinely valued
Lincolnshire is committed to continuous improvement to deliver better belonging; the best experiences and outcomes for children and young people with SEND so that they thrive.
Lincolnshire’s inclusion strategy sets out our collective responsibility to ensure that children and young people with SEND are supported to achieve the best possible outcomes in school and in life, through the following priorities:
- making support work for families and communities
- inclusive school environments
- prepared for adulthood
- championing positive experiences
- improving the range and quality of provision