Special Educational Needs and Disability Information Advice and Support Service

We aim to ensure that young people can express their views, and help parents to make informed decisions about their children's education. Through us, parents and young people can request the help of an Independent Supporter to help them to express their views, or understand processes and procedures relating to their own, or their child's special educational needs. These Independent Supporters can be provided by SEND IASS or by an independent organisation called Core Assets.

We provide information, when requested, to parents' groups, community groups, voluntary organisations and others with an interest in Special Educational Needs and Disability. A newsletter entitled 'What's Going On?' is distributed to schools each term, containing articles about what's available in the community and beyond, for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities and their parents.

We produce leaflets containing information on a range of educational topics which are distributed through the service. We have a variety of resources available for loan to parents to help with understanding and supporting their child's needs.

Our staff are linked to a wide network of useful organisations throughout County Durham and can help parents who are looking for support.

Further information

You can find out more about us on our Durham Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Information Advice and Support Service website.

County Durham Local Offer

There over 70 local parent support groups in County Durham. Details can be found on Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and our Local Offer.

Children and Young People's Network

Disabled children and young people from birth to 25 years and their families can also register with the Children and Young People's Network. It offers a regular newsletter, parent/carer information days, family fun days and a Children's Network Directory with information about support groups and accessible activities.