You know yourself or your child best, so you might be the first to notice that you need some support. You could be looking for support with things like:
- speech and language
- reading and writing
- challenging behaviour
- every day tasks like: sleeping, toileting or eating
- a medical condition
- a sensory or physical need
This guide will help you decide what to do next. It covers who to talk and when.
You can also read more about what Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) means, and have a look through our parent carer guide to SEND.
Who can I talk to?
Health
If you are worried about your child’s health or development, you can speak to the 0-19 Service which includes midwife, health visitor, school nurse or your family doctor.
📞 0191 282 3319 (for 0-19 service)
🏥 Contact your family doctor’s surgery.
Education
If your child attends a childcare setting, school or college, you can talk to a teacher, key worker or any trusted staff member.
You may also want to speak to the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator (SENDCO).
For support navigating SEND in education you can contact the Special Educational Need and Disabilities Information Advice and Support Service (SEND IASS).
📞 0191 2116255
📲 07966 281 162 (text service for young people)
📧 SENDIASSadmin@newcastle.gov.uk
The Community Family Offer
There is lots of support for families available across Newcastle. Call in to your nearest hub, or contact them to see what's available.
📞 0191 272 7824 (Inner West)
📧 innerwestcfn@newcastle.gov.uk
📞 0191 275 9636 (East)
📧 eastcfn@newcastle.gov.uk
📞 0191 277 7800 (Outer West)
📧 outerwestcfn@newcastle.gov.uk
📞 0191 211 5773 (North)
📧 northcfn@newcastle.gov.uk
You can also contact the Early Help Access Point:
📞 0191 211 5805
📧 earlyhelp@newcastle.gov.uk
Local Support
Connecting with peers can help you share experiences, learn from others and feel supported. Check out our timetable for local support.
