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Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)

Welcome to Kent's SEND Information Hub.

We know that understanding SEND and finding the right support can feel overwhelming at times. Here you'll find advice, guidance and services for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) aged 0 to 25. Whether you're just starting out or looking for your next steps, we're here to help you find the information you need.

A child with SEND smiling and looking at his Ipad.

Share your views about the SEND service

We want to hear from you! We are always looking for ways to improve our SEND service.

Why not take part in one of our surveys or consultations to help shape the future for Kent's children and young people. Your voice matters.

In this section

  • Contact us

    Get in touch with our SEND Enquiries Hub or a support service for advice and information.

  • I think my child might need some extra help

    See who to talk to and what help is available if you think your child has special educational needs, including how to request an EHC plan.

  • Types of special educational needs

    Learn about autism, speech and language, learning, physical, emotional, and sensory support in education and health.

  • Under 5s

    Find out what to do if you think your child under 5 needs support with their development.

  • School aged children

    Find out how to choose a school that meets your child's needs or how to get additional support, including how to get an EHC plan.

  • Young people (16 to 25)

    The move towards adulthood can be challenging. You'll need to consider issues such as housing, education, work and adult social care.

  • Support for parents

    Explore what's available from your community, short breaks, days out, training and money support.

  • Social care support

    Learn about needs assessments, occupational therapy, and equipment or changes at home.

  • Health and wellbeing

    Health services that support children and young people with their physical, emotional and mental health needs.

  • Your rights for you and your family

    Learn about yours, your child or young person's employment, education and health rights.

  • Listening to you

    Discover how we're listening to your feedback and improving our services.

  • SEND strategies and policies

    Find out how we manage and improve special education and disabilities for children and young people.

What is the SEND Information Hub?

The SEND Information Hub is Kent's Local Offer. It brings together information, advice, support and services for children and young people with SEND aged 0 to 25, and their families.

Whether you're looking for answers, exploring your options or finding support in your local area, you'll find guidance to help you at every stage.

Learn more about the local offer

Kent's local offer text on a yellow background

Education options for your primary school child

Every child is different, and the right setting will depend on their individual needs, strengths and circumstances. Explore the different school options available and the support they can provide.

Find the right education setting for your child

A young girl with SEND playing indoors with a wooden stacking ring toy, carefully arranging the rings on a central peg. A guardian watches over her in the background.

Visit our Local Offer Directory

Whether you're looking for support, activities, advice or ways to connect with others, our Local Offer Directory can help. Explore hundreds of SEND groups, clubs, charities, community organisations, and services available across Kent.

Visit our Local Offer Directory

A woman mixes ingredients in a wooden bowl while a young man beside her helps hold the bowl and smiles. Eggs and a bottle of milk are on the table in front of them.

Listening to you

Find out how we're working with children, young people, parents and carers to improve SEND services, and discover ways to stay informed, get involved and share your experiences.

See how we're listening and taking action

Support for you and your family