Occupational Therapist
Advises parents and schools about aids and adaptations at home and school. Runs programmes to assist with fine and gross motor skills. Gives advice about mobility and co-ordination skills. Referrals to this service are made by schools or health care professionals.
Physiotherapist
Works to support the child and their family to reach their greatest physical potential. This includes giving support and advice to school.
Referrals to this service can be made by health care professionals.
Special Educational Needs Teaching and Support Service (SENTASS)
This is a team of local authority specialist teachers and support staff who assess and work with children and young people who have a range of special educational needs.
They work with parents and professionals to provide a co-ordinated programme of intervention. They work with children from pre-school to school leaving age who have dyslexia, dyspraxia, specific learning disabilities, visual and hearing impairments and communication difficulties. They accept referrals from schools and health colleagues.
Speech and Language Therapist (SALT)
Helps development of social and language skills in children and gives advice on the use of alternative methods of communication including symbols and Makaton. Can assist with oral motor problems and offer advice on swallowing and chewing difficulties
They have an open referral system – anyone can refer as long as they have permission of the child’s parents. Parents/carers can refer directly if they wish.
Tel: 0191 282 3085
Educational Psychologist
They work with children in schools and early years settings and at home visits for pre-school children.
Works with teachers, parents and other professionals to assess, give advice on management and teaching of the child to make the best possible progress.
Referrals to this service are made by schools.