⚠️ Immediate Crisis Support
If you or your child are in immediate danger of harm, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
SHOUT 85258
A free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service for anyone who is struggling to cope. You will be connected to a trained volunteer who will help you find calm.
The Samaritans
Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you need a completely non-judgemental person to talk to about how overwhelmed you are feeling, they are there.
NHS 111 (Mental Health)
You can now call NHS 111 and select the mental health option to speak to a trained professional if you or your child are experiencing a mental health crisis.
Exhaustion & Carer Burnout
If you are not in an immediate crisis but feel entirely overwhelmed by the SEND journey, these organizations offer dedicated listening services and emotional support specifically for parent carers.
Contact: Listening Ear
A brilliant charity for families with disabled children. They offer 1-to-1 telephone appointments with family support advisers who provide a safe space to talk, cry, and vent about the SEND system.
Book a CallCarers UK
They provide expert advice, information, and support for unpaid carers. Their helpline can assist with the emotional toll of caring, as well as practical advice on your legal rights as a carer.
Visit Carers UKScope: Navigate Service
Navigate is a national mentoring service providing emotional support for parents and carers of disabled children who are finding out about their child's additional needs.
Find out morePractical & Financial Respite
Financial pressure is a massive contributor to parent burnout. Make sure you are claiming the support you are legally entitled to.
Request a Carer's Assessment
You have a legal right to a Carer's Assessment from your local council. This is not about judging your parenting; it is an assessment of what you need to cope. It can lead to funded respite care, gym memberships, or driving lessons.
Learn about AssessmentsThe Family Fund
The UK's largest charity providing grants for families raising disabled or seriously ill children on low incomes. They provide grants for essential items like washing machines, sensory toys, family breaks, and computers.
Apply for a GrantDLA & Carer's Allowance
If your child requires more care than a neurotypical child of the same age, you should claim Disability Living Allowance (DLA). If awarded at the middle or high rate, you may also be entitled to claim Carer's Allowance for yourself.
Check DLA Eligibility