SEND information for parents

As a parent or carer of a child with SEND it is important that you have all the information you need to best support your child.  

This page will offer you advice and guidance about the support available in Staffordshire for parents and carers of children with SEND. 

SEND Local Offer 

The SEND Local Offer is a comprehensive directory of services and support available to help children and young people aged 0-25 with special educational needs and disabilities.  

As a parent you can: 

• Find services: Use the Local Offer to search for specific services and support available in your area, tailored to your child’s needs. 
• Get help: Access information on how to get help for your child, including referral pathways for therapy and support services. 
• Plan for the future: Utilise resources for planning transitions, whether it’s starting school, moving to secondary education, or preparing for adulthood. 
• Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest news, events, and changes in SEND services and policies. 

By using the SEND Local Offer, you can make sure you are well-informed and equipped to support your children effectively. 

Visit the SEND Local Offer.  

If you need further information about the Local Offer, email  localoffer@staffordshire.gov.uk 

SEND Information Advice and Support Service (SENDIASS) 

The Staffordshire Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Information, Advice and Support Service (SENDIASS) offers a range of services to support children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), as well as their parents and carers. Here are some some of the things they offer: 

• Information and advice:  free, impartial, and confidential advice on matters related to education, health, and social care for children and young people with SEND
• Support for parents and carers:  guidance and support to parents and carers, helping them navigate the complexities of SEND provisions and ensuring they understand their rights and options
• Support for young people: direct support for young people with SEND, advice on educational settings, health services, and social care options
• Training and workshops:  training sessions and workshops for parents, carers, and professionals to better understand SEND issues and how to address them effectively
• Local Offer:  information about the local offer, which includes details on the services available in Staffordshire for children and young people with SEND
• Events and networking: host events and networking opportunities through the Staffordshire Umbrella Network (SUN), which helps families connect and share experiences

Visit their website SENDIASS SEND IASS - Staffordshire Family Partnership (staffs-iass.org)

contact SENDIASS directly by phone on 01785 356921  or by email at sfps@staffordshire.gov.uk 

SEND Parent Carer Forum 

The Staffordshire Parent Carer Forum (StaffsPCF) is a volunteer-run organisation of parents and carers of children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).  

Their main goal is to enhance the provision and outcomes for SEND children in Staffordshire by ensuring that parents’ voices are heard by service providers and commissioners.

They offer a platform for parents to connect, share experiences, and access resources, and they collaborate with local authorities, schools, and the NHS to improve SEND services.

Additionally, they host events like the 'Together we Thrive' marketplace to provide information and support from SEND specialists.  

If you are a parent or carer, you can join the Parent Carer Forum.  

You can find out more about the forum by visiting the Staffordshire Parent Carer Forum or by emailing info@staffspcf.co.uk.