When was SNIP started?
In 1995 the Bedford Dyslexia Association suggested that a directory of special needs would be a good idea for the area.
Who got it going?
Luton Borough Council and Bedfordshire's County Council gave time and money in 1996 to develop a directory in partnership with the Bedford Dyslexia Association, which represented the voluntary sector.
Why use the Internet?
We realised a paper based directory soon got out of date so we decided to be the first local partnership to use the Internet as the only way of making our directory information available.
When did the SNIP site go live?
In February 1997 the site was launched simultaneously in Bedford Library and Luton Town Hall by Councillors. The pictures shows the then Chief Education Officer (Paul Brett) and the Leader of the Education Committee, Mrs. Angela Roberts at the launch in Bedford.
Where does the money come from?
The initial funding came from a £5,000 grant from Dave Ledson's St Georges Day Ball Charity. Other charitable donations were received, for example from the Inner Circle. The Councils have supported the partnership with time and money. More recently a grant from the Health Authority of £5,000 in 2001 has ensured the service can be sustained. K & B Computers have sponsored the website since its launch.
What next?
SNIP has grown to the extent we now cover Health and Education special needs issues. Use of the site grows regularly. We are always on the look out for new ideas and funding. Do contact us with suggestions!
Can I get my organisations in the directory?
If you belong to a recognised charity or a statutory service, send us the details and we'll be pleased to add these to the site.
How many people visit the site?
We don't put much faith in measuring success against a number of "hits" any more than we measure the value of a fire-extinguisher on the basis of the number of times it is used! Nonetheless, since January 1999 we have had just under 100,000 visits, and currently average 120 visits a day.
