We have SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) Champions who can tell you about support available, ranging from parenting, your child’s learning and development, and family life.
The SEND Champions also run courses and sessions that you can attend with your child. That includes weekly SEND Chat and Play sessions and an Early Adventurers course. They're a great opportunity to play, meet other families, meet local SEND support groups, and get up to date information.
To find out more, call 0300 123 7572 and speak to a member of our friendly team.
If you have concerns regarding your child’s development or any potential additional need, call the Health Visiting team in your area on 0300 123 7572. Alternatively, text us on 07480 635164.
More about how the Health Visiting service can help
SEND Chat and Play
Come to a free, weekly SEND Chat and Play drop-in session. They are a safe space to play, meet other families, and meet local SEND support groups.
You can also get support from the SEND Champions – up to date information and a listening ear.
All are welcome, whether a child is diagnosed with or showing signs of SEND. To find out more, call 0300 123 7572 and speak to a member of our friendly team.
The Hertfordshire SEND Local Offer
The SEND Local Offer lets parents and young people know what SEND services are available in Hertfordshire and who can access them.
Visit the SEND Local Offer
Supporting your child with complex needs
If your child has been diagnosed with an illness, disability or sensory differences and needs additional support on a daily basis, they're described as having "complex needs". A child might have complex needs from birth or after an illness or injury.
From birth – you will have a home visit from your health visitor and appropriate referrals will be discussed and made as needed. The health visiting team will support your child until they go to school and the family support service will also be in touch to welcome you.
From 9 months – read about early years childcare entitlement.
Within the first year – you can request support from the early years SEND team directly or via health services. From around 10 months, you'll be invited to a review with the health visiting team.
Between 2 and 3 years – at around 27 months you will be invited to a review with the health visiting team.
Pre-school years – you may have support from the specialist advisory teacher, children's therapies and early years specialist development centres as required.
From 4 years – your child can start school the autumn term after their 4th birthday. Education and health professionals will support your child through key milestones.