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Health and wellbeing - receiving a diagnosis for your child (SEND)

You may learn about your child’s special educational needs or disability before they are born, at birth or over the course of their development. They may also develop a need or disability suddenly because of a significant event.

When you learn about a new diagnosis, you may feel like you’re not sure how to provide support, or what support you can get from schools and services in your area. 

The most important thing to remember is that there is a whole network of professionals whose job is to secure the best possible outcomes in life for you and your child.

When your child is diagnosed with SEND, you should be given a clear explanation about what happens next and where to get more information and support. 

Next steps

If you are pregnant, you should receive antenatal screening, which can identify some conditions before birth and help you prepare by finding the right support. 

No matter when you learn of a need or disability, the professionals involved in your care and support will discuss the next steps with you.

Getting support

You and anyone involved in the care of your child can get support from the local authority or organisations in your area. 

Professional referrals

At any time during your child’s journey they may receive a professional referral to find specific, focused care. You should always be involved in any decision made around the care of your child.

SEND Hub (local offer)

The SEND Hub section of this website is specifically designed to give you as much information as possible to support children and young people with SEND and their parents and carers.