Additional Needs Support
As a local authority, we are committed to providing support for preschool children who have additional needs. We recognise that early intervention is crucial for ensuring that these children have the best possible start in life. To this end, we discuss the support needs of a child at the Early Years Additional Needs Support Panel. The panel includes a range of professionals such as health visitors, educational psychologists, local authority experts, and advisory teachers.
The support agreed for children may consist of some additional staffing support for 2-3 year olds to promote school readiness (and for 3-4 year olds if the child receives Childcare Offer), equipment/resources to support their physical and developmental needs or training for staff. Staffing support is provided by skilled childcare practitioners who work with children on an individual or small group basis, for a few hours a week, with the aim of improving their individual needs and reducing the amount of support they may need in school.
We tailor our support in accordance with the Additional Learning Needs Bill in Wales, and we develop individualised support plans called person centred plans, or PCPs that contain SMART targets, which are reviewed regularly. Our AN Support Officer also offers home and setting visits to offer guidance and advice to ensure that each child receives the best possible support.
Find more information here:
Services Available for Families
