SEND resources for education staff of CYP aged 5-25

Here is an introduction, or a starting point, of services and information to help you support a child and family with additional needs. Please start with the Local Offer and the Grid for learning. There are many links and guidance on these sites.

The Hertfordshire Local Offer

The Local Offer lets parents and young people know what special educational needs and disabilities services are available in Hertfordshire, and who can access them. There is lots and lots of information on this site including support with education, short breaks, services for children, services for parents/carers and families, money and services.

Herts Grid for Learning

There is a section on the Grid for SEND and additional needs. This covers services, behaviour management (Hertfordshire Steps), Educational Psychology, medical absence, SEND and disability and traveller and refugees.

Delivering Special Provision Locally Groups (DSPLs)

One way in which Hertfordshire provides support to children and young people with SEND across the county is through their Delivering Special Provision Locally groups (DSPLs).

There are 9 DSPL areas. The reason for having different area groups means that the groups can cater the provision to exactly what their area needs, giving a more focused approach to providing the right support for the right locality. They provide support to schools and also widen the choice for parents and families of support outside of school in the local area.

Each DSPL group is made up of:

• Parents and carers
• Staff from early years settings, schools and colleges
• People from other SEND organisations

Single Point of Access (SPA) 24/7 Mental Health Helpline

Herts residents of all ages, including carers, GPs and other professionals can contact our 24/7 Single Point of Access (SPA) Mental Health Helpline team at any hour of the day or night, 365 days a year. The team can provide support for Herts residents who are experiencing a mental health crisis, need some mental health support or just want to talk on: Freephone 0800 6444 101

Children’s occupational therapy

The Children’s occupational therapy service offers a child and family-centred approach to support children and young people with their independence in all aspects of daily living, such as self-feeding, dressing and participating in play and school activities. The service is available to children and families across Hertfordshire.

They work in partnership with parents/carers and other colleagues to promote positive outcomes for children by using a range of approaches that are individually tailored to each child and family. This may include the provision of an activity plan, specialist equipment, treatment sessions or training to parents, carers and school staff. This is achieved through individual assessments, treatment, advice and multi-agency working. For more details on their courses please look at the training section on their website.

ADD-vance – the ADHD and Autism Trust

ADD-vance is a dedicated group of professionals, who also happen to be parents of children affected by ADHD and/or Autism. Their mission is to support the families of children affected by these conditions and the professionals involved in their care. They want to increase understanding, provide support and change perceptions of these complex neurological conditions, so as to improve the wellbeing and reduce the social isolation of these young people and their families.