Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Support
For many adults and children the safety afforded of a routine ensures that they feel secure, content and able to reach their potential; whatever that may be. Since the outbreak of the Coronavirus in the UK, we all find ourselves surrounded by a degree of anxiety and uncertainty that can have an adverse effect on how comfortable we are.
With this in mind, there are many services - both locally and nationally - that can help learners and families across this period of isolation and broken routines.
Gateshead Local Offer
Gateshead have a wealth of resources and posts available through their Facebook page.
One such pinned post is advertising the services of Gateshead SENDIAS (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Information and Advice Support Service) whom can provide support and signposting towards help during the crisis.
The page also posts helpful images and advice to support children with different barriers to learning, and how families can still access the support that they are entitled to.
BBC Bitesize - SEND Toolkit
BBC Bitesize have created a SEND Toolkit to help parents/carers navigate the lockdown.
Here you will find articles designed to provide concise and helpful tips - whether this be to encourage mindfulness, support behaviour management and understand SEND to a higher level. You might even recognise some people who are involved in this wonderful resource.
National Autistic Society
The National Autistic Society is the leading charity in the UK for Autistic People and their families. Their goal is to transform lives, change attitudes and create a society that works for Autistic people.
During the Coronavirus, the charity has created a bank of resources on their site that can be accessed by following the hyperlink. The best area in my opinion however is their section on tips for autistic people and their families which can be found here.
Furthermore, the North East Autism Society have created advice sections - as well as exercise videos - to help support children and adults in lockdown.
Sense
Sense primarily supports children with complex Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities.
From their website, it is clear that Sense can support parents/carers with funding and housing applications, in addition to providing support around jargon and legal frameworks that affect families of those with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities.
Little Miracles Charity
The Little Miracles Charity is currently actively supporting families during the Coronavirus crisis.
Little Miracles operates primarily in the south of England, but presently are running support programs across their Facebook page - including social stories (which you can find here) and bedtime stories.
The charity predominantly looks to support parents/carers through a family support worker approach.