SEND Directory

You may qualify for one of the following council tax discounts, reductions, or exemptions:

You could get a bursary to help with education-related costs if you’re aged 16 to 19 and:

• studying at a publicly funded school or college in England - not a university
• on a training course, including unpaid work experience
• A publicly funded school is one that does not charge you for attending it.

If you’re 19 and over

You could also get a bursary if you either:

Use our benefits calculator to find out what benefits you can claim.

There are options for those who may need extra care and support to stay in their homes, would like support to live independently, or are considering residential care.

The UK's leading charity for autistic people and their families provides support, guidance, advice, and more.

Their advice and guidance section has a wide range of information about autism, including diagnosis, behaviour, communication, loneliness, sensory differences, mental health, benefits and money, education, and more.

• Visit the National Autistic Society website

Grants and Holidays for Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities and Serious Illnesses.

Scope is a charity in England and Wales dedicated to disability equality. They offer practical information, emotional support, family and employment services, and a wide range of advice and support, including information on benefits, legal matters, and disability equipment.

For more information or to access their advice and support, visit the Scope website.

Short breaks, also known as respite, provide opportunities for children and young people with special needs to spend time away from their primary carers. These breaks can occur during the day, evening, overnight, weekends, or school holidays and can take place in various settings such as the child's home, an approved carer's home, a residential setting, or a community location.

Types of short breaks:

Personal budgets for children and young people with special needs and/or disabilities and their families will now be known as the Short Breaks Grant.  

A new policy statement and self-assessment form are being finalised and launched in early 2025. 

This page will soon include more details. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please contact the Disabled Children’s Team.