I think my child needs help

Who the roadshows can help

These are in person events for parents and carers of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

Your child does not need a diagnosis for you to come and get help at a roadshow. You may:

• be new to SEND and unsure what help is available
• feel your child needs help or have questions about the support they already receive
• want to find out what support there is for you as a parent or carer
• not be sure what support you might need

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What you can get out of a roadshow

There are many different professionals who can help you under one roof. This includes local support groups, education professionals, health teams and social care teams.

You can:

• access support and information
• understand the different services available
• find out about support available in schools
• find out about local support, such as parent groups
• meet other carers and parents

What to expect on the day

You can drop in when it’s convenient for you, without booking. Groups and teams will have their own stalls.

At the welcome desk, you'll see people wearing purple tops with ‘help to help’ on them. They can help with any access needs and help you find the best people for you to speak to. They will ask you to sign in and give you a leaflet with useful contacts and a space to write notes.

You can explore the different stalls, ask questions, have tea and coffee. Quieter areas for discussion are available too.

Watch this video to find out more about the roadshows:

How often the roadshows happen

These events happen three times a year, in spring, summer and autumn. One for every school term.

There are 4 locations to choose from in mid Essex, north-east Essex, west Essex and south Essex.

Spring term roadshows

In the spring term there will be two sessions during the day. 

The morning will be open to parents and carers who have a child or young person with aged 0 to 25.

In the afternoon there will be an Early Years roadshow focusing on children aged 0 to 5. This will be for:

• parents and carers
• Early Years SENCos
• keyworkers for Early Years children with additional needs 

The afternoon session includes a hub run by The Essex Child and Family Wellbeing Service and story sessions from the library service. Children are welcome in the afternoon.

There will be workshops running in the morning and afternoon which you can sign up to.  Unfortunately, children will not be able to go along to workshops.

Morning workshops

There will be two workshops taking place 10.30am to 12pm.

Parents and carers can take part in:

• ADHD and co-existing conditions workshop - practical advice for those who have ADHD and co-existing conditions, and their families
• Helping your SEND child manage their big emotions workshop - information to help support parents whose children can become overwhelmed and dysregulated

Please complete the interest form if you would like to attend a morning workshop.

Find the next roadshow near you

Find out more about the next roadshows taking place in:

• West Essex
• Mid Essex
• North-east Essex
• South Essex