With effect from 31st March 2025, the Social and Communication Peer Support Worker service will not be taking on new families in preparation for the ABSS grant end. Existing families will be able to use the Service until 30th June 2025.
Please note these dates are subject to change based on incoming referrals and families on the waiting list.
To learn more about ABSS programme changes beyond 31st March 2025, visit the Beyond ABSS webpage.
The Social and Communication Peer Support Worker team offers focused support to families with children under four, with social and communication needs in the City of Southend. The team builds relationships with families by visiting them at home and having one-to-one personalised support.
The team also accompanies families to appointments, offering guidance on accessing local services, organisations and activities, as well as offering specialised workshops on various topics and assistance with applying for grants and benefits.
For further details of the Social and Communication Peer support project after 31st March 2025, please refer to: https://www.eyalliance.org.uk/special-educational-needs-sen
Families with young children who have special educational needs and disabilities will continue to receive support through the Council’s education service.
Support may also be found after 30th June 2025 through Southend City Council’s Early Years SEND Support Service. Find out more at https://www.livewellsouthend.com/early-years-education/early-years-send-support-service
Visit City Family’s Service Map to explore services available to families across the city of Southend.
Visit our Legacy Resource Packs page for useful resources, links, tips and downloads.