SEND and neurodiversity support in Essex helps children and young people who need additional support with their health, development, learning, or emotional wellbeing. For example, this may include children and young people with autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, and other special educational needs.
NHS Essex Integrated Care Board (ICB) works with local authorities, schools, NHS services, and voluntary organisations to plan and improve health services. As a result, children and families can access more coordinated and joined-up care.
Detailed information about services, referral pathways, and support available near you can be found in the local area section of this website.
What neurodiversity and SEND support in Essex includes
Neurodiversity and SEND support in Essex includes a wide range of health and care services. For example, support may include:
- Neurodevelopmental assessment and diagnostic services
- Speech and language therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Mental health support
- Specialist paediatric services
- Support for long-term health conditions
- Family support and advice
Importantly, support is based on individual needs and does not always require a formal diagnosis. In many cases, early support can begin while assessments are still in progress.
However, services are delivered locally, so pathways and support may vary depending on where you live.
How to access SEND and neurodiversity support in Essex
If you are concerned about your child’s development, behaviour, communication, or wellbeing, you should speak to a professional who knows your child. For example, this may include:
- Your GP practice
- Health visitor
- School nurse
- School or nursery staff
- Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO)
They can listen to your concerns and, where appropriate, help you access support.
In addition, you can visit your local area page for detailed information about:
- Available services
- Referral pathways
- Assessment processes
- Waiting times
- Local support organisations
Our role in supporting children and young people with SEND
NHS Essex Integrated Care Board has a legal responsibility to plan and commission health services for children and young people with SEND. These responsibilities are set out in national legislation, including the Children and Families Act 2014 and the SEND Code of Practice.
Therefore, we work in partnership with:
- Local authorities
- NHS providers and primary care services
- Schools, colleges, and early years settings
- Voluntary and community organisations
- Children, young people, parents, and carers
Through this partnership approach, services are better coordinated and more responsive to local needs.
Your child’s support journey
Every child’s experience is different. However, most children and young people follow a similar journey when accessing SEND and neurodiversity support in Essex.
Concerns may be identified by families, schools, or health professionals. In many cases, early support can begin without a diagnosis.
Professionals may gather information to understand your child’s strengths and needs. This helps ensure the right support is provided.
Depending on your child’s needs, this may include school support, therapy services, or specialist care.
Support should be reviewed regularly. As a result, services can adapt as your child grows and their needs change.
Importantly, families should be involved in decisions throughout this process.
SEND Local Offer
Each local authority provides a SEND Local Offer. This explains the education, health, and care support available for children and young people with SEND.
For example, Local Offer websites provide information about services, eligibility, and how to access support.
Visit your Local Offer:
You can also find local SEND and neurodiversity services in the local area section of this website.
Neurodiversity services in mid Essex Neurodiversity services in north Essex Neurodiversity services in south east Essex Neurodiversity services in south west Essex Neurodiversity services in west EssexSEND inspections and service improvement
SEND services are inspected jointly by Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission (CQC). These inspections review how well local organisations work together to support children and young people with SEND.
Inspection findings help partners across Essex improve services and outcomes for families.
Getting help and advice
If you need advice or support, you can speak to a healthcare professional. For example, you may wish to contact:
- Your GP practice
- Health visitor
- School nurse
- Your child’s school
In addition, you can contact your local SEND information, advice, and support service.
We are committed to working with partners and families to improve SEND and neurodiversity support in Essex. Ultimately, our aim is to help every child and young person reach their full potential.