Finding the Right SEND Support for Your Family

What happens if we’re not the right fit for your child 

Telling a family we're not the right fit isn't a decision we take lightly, and it's never the end of the road. For some children, that means not for now, and we can review their needs again in time to see where we can add value to your family. For others, we want you to be able to find someone who can provide your whole family with the specialised support you need. 

We know this isn’t an easy thing to hear. There are, however, some incredible organisations and resources to help you find what your family truly needs. 

Find your Local Offer 

Every local authority in England is legally required to publish a Local Offer: a directory of all the SEND support, services and provision available in your area. It includes a wide range of providers covering education, training, social care, health, and transport. It's one of the most underused resources available to families, and a good first port of call when you're trying to understand what exists near you. 

Search "[your area] SEND Local Offer" to find yours, or use Find your local council if you're not sure which authority covers you. 

In other parts of the UK, alternative local support information is available too. Find yours via WellChild's guide to SEND Local Offers across the UK. 

Charities are a huge source of support 

Most SEND and Additional Needs conditions have a charity linked to them that is hugely knowledgeable and offers practical support.

Some of the most trusted include: 

• British Dyslexia Association 

• ADHD Foundation 

• National Autistic Society 

• Dyspraxia Foundation 

• Speech and Language UK 

NHS routes worth knowing about 

Alongside local and charity support, the NHS is often a key part of the picture, particularly for clinical or therapeutic needs we're not able to provide ourselves. Your GP can refer your child for an assessment or onward support, and depending on your area and your child's needs, this might lead to CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services), a Speech and Language Therapy service, or another specialist NHS pathway. Waiting times vary a lot by area, so it's worth asking your GP or school what's typically available locally and how long it tends to take.  

Organisations helping a wide variety of needs 

Your child may not have a diagnosis yet, or you might be looking for broader advice around SEND support. These organisations help families to navigate the systems of support: 

• Contact – practical advice for families of disabled children 

• Special Needs Jungle – a parent-run site you'll find genuinely honest, with actionable advice 

• Find your local IAS service (SENDIASS) – free and impartial advice on your rights and options 

• IPSEA – help navigating the EHCP process and appeals 

If things change, we're here 

Needs change, and so do families. If your circumstances shift, or you'd simply like to talk things through again in future, we're always happy to have that conversation.