Protesters unite in Wick against ASN cuts
Demonstrators have taken to Wick's Market Square to protest what they see as "shameful" funding cuts for pupils with additional support needs (ASN).
Over 30 people, carrying placards and banners, turned up outside Highland Council's offices in Market Square as part of a co-ordinated Highland-wide protest to make their views known.
Similar events were held at other locations, including Golspie, Inverness, Ullapool and Fort William.
Parents from various parts of Caithness along with community representatives protested about the planned cuts which, they say, will impact on vulnerable youngsters who need support.
The cuts – phased over three years – could also affect other children in mainstream education.
It is understood around £700,000 may be cut from the ASN budget this year with further cuts expected in the following two years. Jobs are also said to be under threat.
Jayne Scollay, who organised the Wick demonstration and is part of the Highland Action Group for ASN and Education, criticised the lack of information coming from the local authority on the proposed cuts.
Mrs Scollay, who has two autistic sons, said: "I have seen no sign of Highland Council wanting to engage with parents. We have had absolutely no contact from them. We just don't know what the situation is and what impact any cuts would have on individual schools. It is really frustrating. We want to show Highland Council we will not stand for cuts that affect vulnerable children."
Jill Sutherland, who lives in Halkirk and has a daughter who requires additional support, described the proposed cuts as "awful".
She said:"It seems to be getting worse and worse. It should be getting better but we are going backwards. The kids are our future but they are not getting the help they need. I have seen changes in the last months and have no idea where it is going to end."
The Reverend John Nugent, the minister at Wick St Fergus church, accused the local authority of "trying to make savings on the backs of vulnerable groups" while spending money "on vanity projects in Inverness."
"It is absolutely shameful and nothing short of a disgrace. I hope these demonstrations will make Highland Council have a rethink and raise awareness of the injustices being perpetrated by council. I hope this protest is the first of many," he said.
Cheryl McDonald, the chairwoman of the Caithness, Sutherland and Ross Labour party branch, said the local authority should recognise where its priorities lie.
"They can pay millions for a fly-over bridge in Inverness and we pay the price. We are not expecting anything other than our rights. These cuts will make the situation impossible," she said.
Unite trade union representative, Davie Alexander, said: "The school term is almost over and we still don't know what the decisions about additional support needs are. It is shocking." His Unite colleague, John Deighan, said:"We need to support the vulnerable in society and back our community."
Richard Thurling from Berriedale has an autistic son and "feels strongly" about the proposed cuts. He is unhappy about the lack of support for the protest from local councillors. "Where are they?" asked Mr Thurling.
Civic leader and local councillor, Willie Mackay, was at the demo to give his backing to the parents. "Every child has a right to an education. These cuts are a huge concern and I think there has been a lack of consultation on this issue and hope the council will have a rethink," he stated.
A Highland Council spokeswoman insisted meetings have taken place to discuss how parents might be more involved in the future."
"We can re-assure parents and staff that the changes this year are being managed to ensure support for our pupils. We have over 1100 pupil support assistants who will continue to work in this area," she said.
