If you’re a bit unsure as to where to go first to find some help and advice relating to your child/young person’s needs then we have put together some information about some of the key places for resources and helpful people to speak to:
Our Local Offer provides information, advice and support for children and young people aged from 0 to 25 years with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and their families.
Visit SEND Local Offer HERE
Information provided by Bovington HIVE
For more information and support services
Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Information, Advice and Support Service (SENDIASS)
SENDIASS is a free, impartial and confidential service which offers information, advice and support for parents and carers of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). This service also directly helps young people. SENDIASS.
Visit SENDIASS HERE
Dorset Education Advice Line (DEAL)
Contact the Dorset Education Advice Line if you want to discuss your child's emerging special educational needs, or if they're not making the progress they should be. We will arrange a 30 minute conversation with you to talk through your concerns and issues.
Visit DEAL HERE
Your Education and Early Help SEND locality teams
These are the area-specific Dorset Council staff who can offer local support and advice.
You can find your locality contact details HERE
Educational psychologists
We offer parents and carers of children age 3 to 18 years (25 if the young person has Special Educational Needs & Disability) the opportunity to speak with a Dorset Educational Psychologist (EP). For younger children talk to your Health Visitor or early years provider first.
This is for people that:
- live in Dorset
- have a query or concern about learning or behaviour
- have worries about wellbeing and emotions
You can book a telephone consultation online HERE