Childcare for children with special needs and disabilities

Finding childcare

The East Sussex Local Offer tells you about help for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). They provide guidance on how to find quality childcare and what to expect.

The East Sussex Community Information Service (ESCIS) directory has details about how each childcare provider helps children who have extra needs.

Choosing childcare

Coram is a charity for families. They have information about picking the right nursery and what to expect. You can read more on the Coram website.

Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years (PACEY) has advice about the different types of childcare. You can find out more on the PACEY website.

Additional support

The Equality Act (2010) says that childcare providers must:

  • make ‘reasonable adjustments,’ including ‘auxiliary aids and services’
  • make sure that children with disabilities are treated fairly

You can read more about disability discrimination.

Pupil premium funding

Early years providers and schools can use Pupil Premium money to help with:

  • activities for children with special educational needs
  • wraparound care, like breakfast or after-school clubs.

Find out more about:

SEND Early Years Service (SEYS)

The SEND Early Years Service (SEYS) helps preschool children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). This includes children with complex needs.

Short Breaks

Short breaks are a form of respite care. They allow children and young people some time away from their families. They can have fun and try new things during their short break.

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