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Caring for someone
People involved in your disabled child's care
There may be a range of people involved in your disabled child's care. Some titles you may be familiar with - like doctor, for example - but others may be new to you.
Your doctor
Your local doctor may be able to tell you about your child's condition and treatment. If they can't, your doctor will be able to refer your child to a specialist. Your doctor will also be able to refer your child for any tests or hospital treatment that might be necessary and tell you of any clinics or organisations that you might find useful.
Key worker
Some families have a key worker. A key worker will see you regularly and make sure you have all the information you need. They will also make sure that services from all the different areas, including health, education and social services, are well co-ordinated.
Key workers can act as a central point of contact for professionals working with your family and share information where necessary.
Paediatrician
Paediatricians are doctors who specialise in working with children. Your doctor may refer you to a paediatrician if you are concerned about your child's development.
Paediatricians may give you a diagnosis about your child's condition, answer any questions you may have and refer your to specialist services.
Paediatric occupational therapist
Paediatric occupational therapists specialise in working with children. They carry out assessments to see if your child would benefit from using specialist equipment like adapted cups, buggies or chairs and provide advice on lifting and handling your child safely.
Paediatric occupational therapists can also help children improve skills like:
- eating and dressing
- co-ordination
- using their hands (often known as fine motor skills)
- perception (for example, awareness of their bodies and space)
Communication support worker
A communication support worker works alongside teachers to provide sign language for young deaf children in nursery or school.
Portage home visitor
Portage is a home-visiting educational service for pre-school children with special educational needs, which is usually provided by local education authorities. The aim of Portage is to support the development of a young child's play, communication and relationships.
Portage also supports families by giving parents the practical help they need to share their child's learning and help with their child's day-to-day learning and activities.
A Portage worker may be a teacher, speech therapist, nursery nurse, parent or volunteer with relevant experience.
Special educational needs coordinator (SENCO)
A SENCO is a member of staff at a nursery, playgroup or school who co-ordinates special educational needs activities and services within that school. In a small school, the head teacher or deputy may take on this role. In a larger school, there may be a special educational needs co-ordinating team.
Educational psychologist
An educational psychologist is a qualified teacher who is also trained as a psychologist. They can assess your child's development, provide support and advice and can help plan for future activities and/or services.
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