Childhood and school
Every child deserves the best possible start in life.
In this section, you’ll find information on how to support your disabled child, and how to access help from your local authority and your child’s school.
Supporting your child
How to support your disabled child in their early years
The first years of a child’s life can be a steep learning curve for parents. If your child has complex needs, that curve can be even steeper.
How to play with your disabled child
This guide explains why play is so important, and gives you lots of fun ideas for ways children with complex needs can enjoy playing.
Support at school
SEND: Special educational needs and disabilities
This guide covers the support system in England for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Support from your local authority
Social care support for disabled children
Children and young people with complex needs can receive support from social workers based in local authorities.
Benefits and financial help for parents of disabled children
This page gives a brief overview of the financial support for parents of disabled children in the UK.
What to expect from your council if you’re deafblind
Councils in England and Wales must follow guidance on how to provide services for children and adults who are deafblind.
Hobbies and wellbeing
Information about sports and physical activities for disabled people
Access to exercise is essential for many disabled people. This page provides information on discounts, free resources and accessible services.
Leisure activities and days out for disabled people
Fancy going to the cinema, getting an audiobook subscription or taking a short holiday? Find out about organisations and schemes to help.
Funding for sports and leisure activities for disabled people
Find out more about different funding sources and schemes that help disabled people access sports and leisure.
Support for you
Support for carers
As a carer, you have rights and it’s important to know what practical, emotional and financial help is available.
Get support from Sense
Support for disabled children and young people
We offer free support for disabled children and young people to give them the best possible start in life.
MSI specialists for deafblind children and young people
Our multi-sensory impairment specialists offer advice and support for anyone up to the age of 25.
Early intervention for disabled children
Our free play service helps disabled children up to 8 years old and their families communicate, develop and connect.