Support for global developmental delay

[gracelau1339]

Hello everyone, I'm reaching out as I'm still very new to the SEN system here in the UK. My son is 4.5 years old and has been diagnosed with global developmental delay. This means he experiences delays in various areas, including speech and language, social skills, and fine and gross motor skills. The diagnosis was done outside the UK.

I'm keen to ensure he receives the support he needs to catch up with his peers in class, but I'm unsure about what support is available at school and how to request it. Additionally, I'd love to hear about any other resources or support networks available outside of school that could benefit my son.

If anyone has any advice or experiences they'd be willing to share, I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you in advance for your help and support.

What country within the UK? The SEN system is different in each home nation.

We are in Manchester xx

An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) will ensure DS receives the support he needs, including therapies. The first step to getting an EHCP is requesting an Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment (EHCNA) from your Local Authority (LA). On their website, IPSEA (a charity who supports parents of DC with SEN) has a model letter you can use. IPSEA and SOSSEN (another charity) have lots of helpful information on their websites and both have helplines too.

Is DS currently attending nursery? What support are they providing?

DS will be reception age in September so have you applied for a school place? If you have and have an offer of a place, have you spoken to the primary school’s SENCO? Even without an EHCP, the school should provide support and make their best endeavours to meet DS’s SEN.

Alongside this, go to the GP and request referrals to paediatrics, SALT, OT and, if appropriate, physio and CAMHS.

If you ask around locally there will be SN groups you may find helpful.

Depending on how long you have been in the UK/your status you may be able to apply for Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for DS.

My youngest 2 girls have gdd, they don't usually catch up with peers and the gap tends to widen. My middle girl is physically 8 years old but mentally now 3 4 at an absolute push in somethings and as young as 2 with her social/emotional side. She's in special school and an absolute delight!

Thanks for the information. That's really useful!! DS is in reception now. I plan to ask for a meeting with the school senco. But before that I would like to know what typical supports I can ask from the school 🤔🤔