Whether you have a newly diagnosed child, suspect your child may have a special educational need/disability, or your young person is older, there are times when we need some extra advice and guidance.

There are several places you can go to find out more, some are more formal avenues to get advice, while others are about getting an informal support network.

We have tried to direct you to all the different types of support below.

SENDIASS

You may want to talk things through with someone who can offer impartial information and advice about the different services. SENDIASS (Special Educational Needs & Disability Information, Advice and Support Service) is a free service for families with a child or young person with SEND. This service is free, accessible, confidential, impartial and provided at arm’s length from the Local Authority.

SENDIASS

Support groups for parents and carers

Parent carers have told us that they get a lot of support and information from other parent carers, in a variety of ways. You may wish to join a local support group, or you might prefer to make contact on social media or online. 

Support groups for parents and carers

Useful websites and links

Many parents, carers and young people have found the internet and websites to be really helpful. Because there is such a huge range of websites offering information, advice and support, covering all disabilities, we aren't able to list them all, but we've included ones recommended to us as a starting point

Useful websites and links

Training opportunities for parents and carers

Parent carers have told us that they would like information on specialist training opportunities which may be available for them. They are offered by a number of different providers and cover many different areas.

Training for parents and carers

SEND Services

If you have any questions about Education, Health and Care Plans you can contact Worcestershire County Council's SEND Services:

Call the helpline: 01905 845579
Email: sen@worcschildrenfirst.org.uk