Early years childcare providers, that is, nurseries, pre-schools and childminders, must have a clear approach to identifying, supporting and responding to the needs of children. This means that all children, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are supported to learn at their own pace and in their own way, in a safe and positive way. H&F council supports childcare providers with this through training, advice, support and funding.
Nurseries must have a lead for SEND. You can ask the nursery who this person is, so you can discuss your child's support needs.
These requirements are detailed in the following government legislation and H&F guidance:
- Early years foundation stage (EYFS) statutory framework on the GOV.UK website
- SEND code of practice: 0 to 25 years on the GOV.UK website
- H&F Ordinarily Available Provision Guide
For information on what to expect from SEND childcare including questions to ask a childcare provider see a Guide to childcare for children with SEND in England on the Family and Childcare Trust website
Funding to support your child
If you have a child attending with an early years childcare provider, your childcare provider may be able to get funding to support your child. This funding includes special educational needs inclusion funding, disability access funding and the early years pupil premium.
Special educational needs inclusion funding (SENIF)
Childcare providers can get SENIF from the term after your child turns 9 months old if your child:
- presents with additional or emerging needs
- does not already have an Education, Health and Care Plan in place
- is not a 4 year old in reception class.
Additional criteria applies. Please speak with your childcare provider about this.
The amount allocated depends on your child's level of need.
Disability access funding (DAF)
Childcare providers can get DAF for your child, if your child:
- claims Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and
- is accessing a government funded 15 or 30 hours childcare place.
The amount is £910 for the financial year 2024/25.
To claim DAF, parents will need to provide a copy of their child's DLA letter to their childcare provider before the child starts their funded place or when their child is eligible for DLA.
Please note, to access funding for SENIF and DAF parents need to consent to an application being made.
Early years pupil premium (EYPP)
EYPP is not specific for children with SEND however your childcare provider may get this:
- based on your personal circumstances
- if your child is accessing a government funded 15 or 30 hours childcare place.
See the full criteria for EYPP on the GOV.UK website
The amount is £378 for the financial year 2024/25.
To claim EYPP, you will need to ensure you complete the 'Parental Declaration Form' before your child takes up their funded place. The childcare provider will be able to use your details on the form to check your eligibility with the council. This normally happens a couple of months after your child has started.
Help with childcare costs
There are a range of financial childcare schemes to support you with your childcare costs. These are available to you depending on your personal circumstances and the age of your child.
Support finding SEND childcare
If you are having difficulty finding a childcare place for your child who has an additional need, email the Early years team on eyfservice@lbhf.gov.uk
You may also wish to speak with the SEND information advice and support service (SENDIASS) about this.
See the SENDIASS website
Information and support for children with SEND and their families living in H&F
For information on services and support available for children with SEND and their families living in H&F, see the council's Local Offer for SEND. This includes the first steps to take and who to speak to if you think your child needs help.