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Last month (February 25) 597 parent/carers & young people accessed our service which led to a total of 2,639 emails, contact forms, telephone calls & meetings. Contact us if you need our advice and support.  

Essex SEND IASS
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Essex Short Breaks

Essex Short breaks give parent carers and siblings of children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities a break from their additional caring responsibilities, whilst enabling children and young people to meet friends, take part in activities, develop independence and have fun. It is part of Essex County Council's early help approach.

Essex Short Breaks are now open to children and young people awaiting assessment for autism. Families registered with Short Breaks can access free days out at some of the most popular attractions in Essex. You can also get free or discounted admission to over 1,100 attractions at venues across the UK with a Max Card. You can also enjoy activity days and family days at Essex Outdoors.  

To find out more read their Newsletter from Essex Short Breaks or visit Essex Shortbreaks website

NEW DATES FOR WORKSHOPS to offer advice and guidance for parents with a child waiting for ASD assessment. Sessions available in September, October and November.   For more information and book a place contact sally.grainger@essex.gov.uk.  You can read about our workshops on our Leaflet for ASD Workshops

Also in this section:

Looked after Children

Local Authorities duties and responsibilities for looked after children in education

Social Care Needs Assessment

How to request a social care needs assessment and what to expect

Disability Living Allowance and Benefits

Information on benefits entitlements and allowances

Social Care Element of an EHC plan

Guidance on the information the LA will seek around your child’s social care needs and social care assessments.

Support Groups, Respite Organisations

Information on local support groups and respite organisations

SENDIASS ASD Workshops

SENDIASS delivers bespoke training sessions online and face to face to parent/carers and for professionals, ensuring that all information shared is relevant and up to date.