Caring for a child or young person with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND) can bring lots of joy - but it can also be challenging at times, especially at home.

In Croydon, there are services that can support your family with everyday life, offer guidance, and help you feel less alone. Support at home can include help with daily routines, managing behaviour, accessing activities, emotional wellbeing, and short breaks for rest and recovery. 

Every family is different. Some may need a little advice; others may need regular support. There are people and services ready to help you create a safe, supportive home life that works for your child - and your whole family. 

Depending on your child’s needs, you may be able to access:

• Home visits from professionals, such as Portage workers, therapists or specialist teachers.
• Support from the Children with Disabilities (CWD) Social Care Team.
• Short breaks (respite) at home or in the community.
• Personal assistants or support workers to help your child at home.
• Help with personal care, equipment or adapting your home.
• Advice on routines, sleep, communication, and behaviour support.
• Access to support for siblings and young carers.

You may also be able to apply for a Personal Budget to arrange some of this support in a way that works best for your family.

Please click here for more information.

You can get help through:

• The Early Help or Children with Disabilities (CWD) Team.
• Your health visitor, school SENCo or GP - who can refer you for assessments.
• Portage Home Visiting Service - supporting families with children under 5 with additional needs.
• Croydon SENDIASS - for advice on what support your child may be entitled to. 

Start by speaking to someone who already supports your child, such as:

• Your child’s school or nursery
  
• A health visitor or therapist
  
• Your child’s social worker, if they have one
  

Or contact Croydon’s MASH (Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub), if you're unsure where to start.

Phone: 020 8726 6400

Email: mash@croydon.gov.uk

Support available at home:

• Short breaks and respite
  
• Personal budgets
  
• Equipment and adaptations
  
• Family wellbeing and advice services 

Please click here for more information.

Children with Disabilities (CWD): Short Break Statement