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. The service includes a range of professionals, they are:

• Social Workers
• Social Work Assistants
• Short-Break Co-ordinator
• Direct Payment Officer
• Occupational Therapy Team

The Children with Disabilities Team work with children and young people where their assessed diagnosed disability related needs are severe, profound and complex and significantly impact on their ability to have opportunities to be safe, develop skills for life and be part of their local community growing up. The specialist support and services, are provided for children and young people whose needs cannot be met through universal, targeted or preventative services.

Social Workers

The Social Workers within the team cover similar work as other local authority social work teams, as well as further specific criteria for the Children with Disabilities Team. Appropriate referrals to the team include:

• Children with Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy and other complex, physical disabilities that significantly impact on the child’s wellbeing
• Children and young people diagnosed with severe learning disabilities
• Children and young people with a diagnosis of Autism with associated learning disability which has a significant impact on their communication needs, social and behavioural development
• Children and young people with severe, profound or multiple disabilities
• Children and young people with severe global development delay
• Children and young people with severe sensory impairment

Occupational Therapy Team

The Occupational Therapy Team provide support with specialist equipment, aids and adaptations to support/improve everyday tasks.

Short Breaks Co-ordinator

A short breaks coordinator ensures that children and young people with disabilities and their families have access to short breaks, which provide opportunities for them to have fun, try new things, and build social connections, while also giving parents and carers a break from their caring responsibilities. They coordinate a range of activities and services, manage budgets, and work with various stakeholders to deliver these breaks. 

Direct Payments Officer

Direct Payments officer support young people in managing their personal budget. The officer helps you use that money in a way that works best for you.

Key responsibilities:

• Set things up: They’ll guide you through the steps to get started, including signing an agreement that explains how the money should be used.
• Give advice: Not sure how to use your Direct Payment? They’ll explain your options—like hiring a personal assistant or paying for activities that help you live more independently.
• Support you as an employee: If you hire someone to support you, they’ll help you understand your responsibilities, like paying wages and taxes.
• Work with your social worker: They team up with your social worker to make sure your support plan fits your life and goals.

The Children with Disabilities Team support children and young people with severe, profound and complex diagnosed disabilities up to the age of 18 years.

Contact the team by emailing [email protected]