In Croydon, Children’s Health Services (CHS) provides therapy support for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Some of this support is given through schools, nurseries and colleges as part of their education provision.

This is known as the Education Element of therapy services. It is designed to help children access learning, be more independent, and reach their full potential while at school or college.

The therapy team works with children and young people who may need extra help in areas such as:

• Speech, language and communication
  
• Fine and gross motor skills (e.g. handwriting, coordination, using tools)
  
• Posture and physical movement
  
• Sensory processing or emotional regulation
  
• Eating, drinking, and swallowing
  

The support is education-focused, meaning it is aimed at helping your child learn, join in with others, and manage daily tasks at school.

The CHS Therapy Service includes:

• Speech and Language Therapists
  
• Occupational Therapists (OTs)
  
• Physiotherapists
  

They work with school staff, parents, and other professionals to make sure therapy strategies are used in everyday learning activities and environments.

Support may take place:

• In your child’s school or nursery
  
• In a therapy clinic
  
• Sometimes through online advice or home activities
  

Therapists might work directly with your child or give training and advice to teachers to help meet your child’s needs in class.

If your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), therapy support written in the plan may be delivered as part of the education section (Section F).

This means it is the local authority’s duty to make sure that therapy is provided. The therapy team will review the EHCP and work with schools and families to deliver what’s needed.

Therapy support linked to education can be:

• Part of your child’s EHCP
  
• Agreed through SEN Support at school
  
• Recommended by an educational psychologist or another professional
  

Speak to your child’s SENCo, teacher, or early years setting if you think your child needs therapy support. They can help with referrals and next steps.