The Children with Disabilities (CWD) Service in Croydon is here to support families who are caring for children and young people with significant and long-term disabilities.

The service helps families who may need practical support, advice, or short breaks (respite) to help manage everyday life. The team works closely with children, parents, schools, health services and other professionals to make sure that the right support is in place.

The CWD Service is for children and young people aged 0 to 18 who:

• Have a significant physical or learning disability.
• Have complex health or medical needs.
• Have severe communication or sensory difficulties.
• May have life-limiting or life-threatening conditions.
• Require a high level of care or supervision at home or in the community.

If your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and receives support from several services, they may be eligible for extra help from the CWD team.

Depending on your child’s needs, support might include:

• A Child and Family Assessment to understand what support your family needs
  
• Short breaks (respite) – giving your child safe, fun time away and giving you a rest
  
• Help with personal care, routines, and managing complex needs
  
• Support to attend activities, clubs or after-school services
  
• Help with transition planning for adulthood
  
• Access to a social worker with experience in disability
  
• Links to benefits, grants or housing support
  

All support is based on your child’s individual needs and what is best for your family.

You can request support through:

• A referral from a professional (such as a GP, school SENCo, therapist or health visitor).
• A direct request through Croydon’s Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) if you're worried or need urgent support.

Contact MASH on 020 8726 6400.

Email: childreferrals@croydon.gov.uk

Once a referral is received, your family may be offered a Child and Family Assessment to decide the type and level of support needed.

You are not alone.

Looking after a child with a disability can be rewarding, but also tiring and overwhelming at times. The Children with Disabilities Service is here to listen, support, and help you find the services that make a difference in your family’s day-to-day life.