We assess children and young people's individual needs so we can provide the right help.
We offer an assessment to children and young people with disabilities who are described as 'Children in Need' under The Children Act 1989.
This could be a learning disability or a physical disability. It could also be sensory loss, complex health needs or life limiting conditions.
If you would like an assessment of need please contact 0300 1234 101.
When we carry out an assessment
Before the assessment takes place, we will:
- talk to you about who else we need to speak to
- ask your permission before we contact them
A member of our team will meet with you and your family to discuss your needs
We keep all your information confidential, unless there are concerns about your safety or the safety of others
During the assessment we will discuss your child's developmental needs.
We will ask about
- their health and education
- what they are good at and what they enjoy
- their care needs
- their wider family
We may also need to see your child in their school or short break setting. This will provide us with an understanding of their needs on a day-to-day basis
We will ask you about your views before the assessment is complete and write your views down. You will receive a copy of the assessment.
Who we can assess
We offer assessments to all children unless support should be provided by a different service, or could be provided at a different level. We use Our Safeguarding Children's Partnership Threshold Tool to see what level of support you might need.
The Mental Capacity Act 2005 applies to people aged 16 years or older. You can find out more by downloading our Mental Capacity and Best Interests leaflet.