SEND Directory

Shine is a national charity providing specialist advice and support pre-birth and throughout life, to anyone with or affected by:

• Spina Bifida
• Hydrocephalus
• Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
• Anencephaly
• Encephalocele - also may be known as Cranium Bifida
• Tethered Cord
• Idiopathic intracranial hypertension
• Chiari II Malformatio 

Shine provides a range of support such as benefits, support for carers, employment and disability, education, legal services and more. 

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.

The Sleep Charity advocates for improved sleep support and access to free, high-quality information. 

The Stroke Association supports individuals in rebuilding their lives after a stroke. They offer specialist support, fund research, and advocate for ensuring the best care and support for stroke survivors.

Childhood Stroke:

For those affected by childhood stroke, the Childhood Stroke Support team answers questions and connects individuals with practical information and guidance.

• Visit the Childhood Stroke website for more details
   

SWAN UK is the UK's only dedicated support network for families affected by undiagnosed genetic conditions, often called syndromes without a name (SWAN).

Their mission is to ensure every family receives the support they need, regardless of diagnosis status. Their efforts include:

The Tottenham Hotspur Foundation focuses on specialist programs with these core objectives:

• Improving achievement
• Building community cohesion
• Promoting healthy lifestyles
• Supporting people with disabilities

Examples of what they offer include:

Turn2us is a national charity offering information and practical help to people facing financial insecurity. Support includes a Grant Search tool and PIP helper