General support available for parents of children with additional needs

The Southend Early Years SEND Support Service is a free and friendly team dedicated to helping families and early years settings support children aged 0-5 years who have special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). They are ther to ensure that every child gets the right support as early as possible – at home, in nursery or pre-school, or during the transition into school.

The team includes experienced SEND advisers and support workers who work closely with parents and carers, nurseries and other professionals who may be involved in your child’s life. They offer personalised support, which may include observing your child at home or in their setting, helping to create Indidivual Support Plans (ISPs), providing guidance on funding options like the Disability Access fund (DLA), and assisting with the Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) process. They also offer training for nursery staff, and help support a smooth transition into school.

You can be referred to the service by your nursery or a health visitor, or you can reach out to them directory yourself to learn more about the support that might be available for your child.

Click here for further information about SEND Support in the early years, useful links and resources.

The Southend Council SEND Team also run friendly, monthly drop-in SEND Surgeries for parent carers. Go along to ask questions and get support and advice about your child.