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What pre-school provisions are available in my area?

We can give you the information or you can contact the children's information service.

What parent and toddler provisions are available in my area?

We can give you the information or you can contact the children's information service.

I have a child with these specified needs - which childcare provisions can take him/her?

We give information on the availability of physical facilities and room sizes, noise levels etc, but do not recommend placements to specific settings.

What is the difference between a Day Nursery, Pre-school, Playgroup, Crèche, parent and toddler Group?

  • Day Nursery - offers Full Day care. 
  • Pre-School/Playgroup/Crèche - offers sessional care, usually 2½ hours. 
  • Parent and Toddler Group - parents stay with children.

Is there any training available to help me with children with special needs?

Yes, please ring for training programme on 020 8567 5247 or the Early Years Childcare and Development Partnership on 020 8566 2545.

‘How do I get my child referred to the SENS team?’

Through the school SENCO.

‘My child is at Nursery - are they still eligible for Portage?’

No, the home visiting service is only for children not at Nursery. They would be welcome at the Parent Support Group.

‘I am moving house and will be just outside Ealing – can I continue with my Portage Worker?’

No, your paperwork will be passed to the Portage Team in the new area.

‘My child is at a private school - can they still be referred to the SENS team?’

Yes.

‘I live in Ealing but my child is at an out of borough school - can they still be referred to SENS?’

Yes.

‘Can the SENS team provide my child with glasses or a hearing aid?’

No they cannot provide these personal items or batteries for hearing aids.

How do I arrange for my child to see an EP?

The EPS does not have the resources to accept direct referrals from parents. If your child attends a maintained school in the Borough you should discuss your concerns about your child with the school’s SENCo. If your child is a pre-schooler then referral can be made by the CDT or by the Early Years setting.

Who will receive a copy of my child’s EP report?

Parents are always sent a copy as are the referring agency. With parental permission, the report will be sent to other appropriate professionals.

Disability Discrimination Act and Childcare Providers

The DDA sets out two main duties for childcare providers. The key two duties are:

  • Not to treat a disabled child 'less favourably'.
  • To make 'reasonable adjustments' for disabled children.
If a childcare provider does not state that they can cater for your specific need it does not mean they will not not take your child. The CIS recommend that you discuss your individual requirements with the childcare providers. For further information on the DDA please contact The Disability Rights Commission Tel: 08457 622 633, Email: enquiry@drc-gb.org

Where can I get a list of childcarers in my area?

Go this web link, Childcare Options and once you're there select childcare options from the menu on the left hand side.

Where can I get a list of Out-of-School Clubs and Holiday Playschemes in my area?

A list of out-of-school clubs and holiday playschemes with vacancies can be obtained from this web link, Children's page and once you're there select childcare options from the menu on the left hand side.

What is the Nursery Education Grant and when will my child be eligible for the grant?

Every three and four year-old attending an eligible provider in Ealing should be entitled to a subsidised early education place. A child becomes eligible the term after their 3rd birthday. The grant covers 5 two-and-a-half hour sessions a week of nursery education during 33 weeks of the year. For more information contact the CIS on 020 8825 5588 or email children@ealing.gov.uk

How do I complain about the childcare my child receives?

All registered childminders, nurseries, playgroups, breakfast/after-school clubs, holiday playschemes and crèches are inspected by The Office for Standards in Education (OFSTED). If you have a concern or complaint with a childcare setting, your first step should be to discuss your concern with the childminder or setting. If you feel you cannot resolve a concern or feel unable to approach the childminder or setting you can contact Ofsted by ringing 08456 40 40 40.

How can I become a registered childminder?

If you require further information contact the Family Information Service on (020) 8825 5588 or email children@ealing.gov.uk and we will invite you to a Childminding Briefing Session to help guide you through the process of becoming registered.

How can I open up an Out of School provision or a Day Care Setting?

Contact the Family Information Service 020 8825 5588 or email children@ealing.gov.uk. The FIS will send you out information relating to the type of setting, the process and support available.

Where can I find out about a career in childcare?

For information on a career in childcare you can contact the Family Information Service on 020 8825 5588.

Where can I find out about parent & toddler groups in my local area?

Parent and Toddler Groups are ideal places to meet other families with pre-school children. They are set up in for parents and carers of children who are aged 0-5 years. Members often run the groups themselves on a voluntary basis. Some groups meet only during term time and, as many do have waiting lists it is advisable to telephone the contact number given first if at all possible. Children learn songs, how to share toys and how to socialise with others. For a list of parent and toddler groups in your local area contact the FIS on 020 8825 5588.

Can I discuss my concerns in person?

Yes, drop in appointments or home visits are available on request.

Can someone come with me to meetings?

Yes, An advisor can attend meetings with you.

Can someone give me advice on Special Needs?

Yes. Advisors are available to give independent and impartial advice on Special Educational Needs and Disability issues.

Can someone help me to write letters or reports about my child?

Yes. Advisors can give support and advice to parent/carers on whay they may need to include when responding to letters or reports or writing their parental contribution to a statutory assessment.

Can someone tell me how to request a Statutory Assessment of my child's needs?

Yes. An advisor can explain the process and give information and advice on the Statutory Assessment process and procedures.

I disagree with my child's Statement of Special Education needs. Can someone tell me what I can do?

An advisor can give you both specific advice and support in how to support your cild's case.

My child is being bullied at school. What can I do?

An advisor will give you information on the correct procedures and where appropriate, will help you to write letters to the school. They can also guide you on how to access support for you and your child.

Can someone give me information on support groups?

Yes. An advisor can you give you informatin on available support groups in the borough. This information is also on our websie and is updated regularly.

I have been told that I should apply for disability benefits for my child. Can someone help me to do this?

Yes. An advisor can go through forms with you and explain to you what information is needed.

     
We would love to hear from you.
You can use this link to email us - info@ealinghelp.org.uk
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