Croydon Children's Therapy Services

Croydon Health Services (CHS) provides a range of therapy services for children and young people who may need extra help with movement, communication, eating, or everyday skills. These services are designed to support children from birth up to 18 years old (or up to 19 if they attend a Croydon special school).

The therapists work closely with parents, schools, nurseries, health professionals, and the child or young person to help them reach their full potential.

Speech and Language Therapy (SALT)

Supports children who have difficulties with:

  • Speaking clearly or using words
  • Understanding language
  • Feeding and swallowing
  • Social communication (including children with autism)

Therapists help your child communicate better and may offer sessions at school, nursery, home, or clinic.

For more information click here

Occupational Therapy (OT)

Helps children who struggle with everyday activities such as:

  • Dressing, feeding, or using the toilet
  • Using their hands or co-ordinating movement
  • Staying focused or calm in busy environments

 Occupational Therapists (OTs) help improve independence, sensory needs, and physical development.

For more information click here

Physiotherapy

Supports children with conditions that affect their:

  • Strength, posture, balance, or mobility
  • Muscles, bones, or joints
  • Recovery after injury or surgery

Physiotherapists (Physios) help children move better and stay as active as possible.

For more information click here

Who can use these services?

Therapy services are for children and young people:

  • With a health or developmental need that affects daily life
  • Who have a diagnosis like autism, cerebral palsy, developmental delay, or sensory needs
  • With or without an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan)

Therapists work with children in mainstream and special schools, early years settings, at home, or in local clinics.

How do I get a referral?

You can speak to:

  • Your GP
  • Your child’s health visitor, SENCo, or teacher
  • A community paediatrician or another health professional

They will help decide if your child needs an assessment and refer them to the right therapy team.

For more information on how to access our services click here

Working Together

Therapists will work with you to understand your child’s needs.

You may be given activities to practice at home, and regular reviews will help track your child’s progress.

They also work closely with:

  • Schools and nurseries
  • Children's nurses and paediatricians
  • Other Croydon SEND and health services