🧩 Help for Children with SEND in Leeds (Special Educational Needs or Disability)
Your child might have SEND if:
- They find learning harder than other children their age 📚
- They have a health problem or illness that makes daily life more difficult 🏥
🗺️ What Is the Leeds Local Offer?
Leeds has a plan called the Leeds Local Offer. It helps children and young people with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND). It also supports parents and families. The Local Offer includes:
- 🏫 Support at school and college
- 🚌 Help with transport
- 👩💼 Help finding a job
- ⚽ Fun activities and sports
- 🤝 Local parent support groups
👉 Visit the website to find out more: Leeds Local Offer
You can also find helpful information on the Family Information Service website – especially for children under age 5.
🧑🏫 Support in School or College
If you think your child has SEND, talk to their school or college as soon as you can. Every school or college must help children with SEND. They have staff to support you:
- At schools, this person is called the SENCO (Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator)
- At colleges, they’re usually called the Additional Learning Needs Co-ordinator
📝 Sometimes your child may need an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). This happens if your child needs more help than the school or college can usually give. Schools and colleges must talk to you before making any decisions about your child’s support.
☎️ Need Help or Advice?
You can contact the Leeds SEND Information Advice and Support Service (SENDIASS):
📞 0113 378 5020 (Leave a message anytime – 24-hour voicemail)
🌐 Or fill in the Get In Touch form online
💰 Paying for Extra Care
If your child has an EHCP and needs special help from a healthcare worker (like a nurse or therapist):
- You might need to pay for some or all of the care
- Leeds City Council will decide how much you pay, based on your situation 💷
💡 You Are Not Alone
There is lots of help in Leeds for children with SEND and their families. Just reach out, ask questions, and use the support available. You’re doing a great job! 🌈✨
