At SPACE we are proud to be run by staff and volunteers with lived experience either because they are the parent/carer of a neurodivergent child, are neurodivergent themselves, or both. So we really do know how overwhelming it can feel to navigate the vast world of SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) – with so many acronyms, so much new information, and so many different systems and services it’s easy to feel lost.
That’s why we developed “Navigating the SEND World”.
This webinar is designed to leave you feeling more confident, prepared, and empowered to tackle the complexities of SEND support. By the end, you’ll have the insights, practical tips, and essential contacts you need to access ongoing support for your family.
Throughout the webinar we aim to help you navigate and access various services and support for your children with SEND in Hertfordshire, including:
Health Services and Pathway to Diagnosis: We look at the pathways to diagnosis and the professionals involved including GPs, paediatric services, health visitor support, and specialist services like occupational therapy and speech therapy. We also look at the role of CAHMS, PALMS and other health services.
Educational Support: Explanation of what schools should do under SEND guidelines, such as implementing the graduated approach (assess, plan, do, review), roles like the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO), and relevant legislation.
Social Services and Financial Support: Information on the 0-25 Team, Short Break Local Offer (SBLO), direct payments, and other social support structures.
Family and Carer Support: Covers benefits like Disability Living Allowance (DLA), carer’s allowance, blue badges, and local resources like the SPACE Lending Library, family support services, and Hertfordshire’s “Local Offer” for SEND resources.
Practical Tips for Appointments and Meetings: Suggestions for staying organised, such as bringing all relevant documents, keeping a diary, and understanding the right to support and advocacy.
Additional Resources: Support groups, legal advice sources, and tools like the sunflower lanyard and the Access, HAND and CEA cards for public accommodations.
This webinar was produced for Hertfordshire County Council as part of the Local Offer. SPACE runs over 40 free online workshops and courses a term for parents and carers of neurodivergent children and young people in Hertfordshire. You can see what we have coming up and book your place here.
