Local Services

Somerset Children’s Social Care

This number can be used for general enquiries and to report concerns regarding young people or adults at risk:

Somerset Direct: 0300 123 2224

Somerset SEND Somerset’s local Offer

Information for young people (0 to 25) with special educational needs and/or disabilities

Website: www.somerset.gov.uk/children-families-and-education/the-local-offer

Community Inclusion and Activity Team (CIA Team)

Run clubs and activities for young people with additional needs. Publish a calendar of local events before each school holiday. Provide information on discount cards and free activity passes

Call: 01823 358117 Email: ciateam@somerset.gov.uk

Website: www.somerset.gov.uk/children-families-and-education/the-local-offer/leisure/activities-for-families/

Somerset Parent/ Carers Forum

Somerset Parent Carer Forum (SPCF) is a parent‑led, not‑for‑profit organisation made up of families who have children and young people (0–25) with additional needs or disabilities. All steering group members are parent carers themselves, ensuring the forum is shaped by real experiences.

The forum works to make sure families’ voices are heard by the people who plan and deliver services across Somerset. They partner with Somerset Council and NHS Somerset to share parent carers’ views and help improve support across education, health and social care.

SPCF also offers practical support for families through friendly “Chill and Chat” groups, information events, training sessions and helpful resources throughout the year. Any parent, grandparent or foster carer of a child with additional needs can join—no diagnosis is required.

Website: https://somersetparentcarerforum.org.uk/

Dental Access Centres

Providers of dental services in Somerset for adults and young people with additional needs. A referral is needed usually through a general dental practitioner or another health care professional e.g. GP.

Bridgwater: 01278 411640 Taunton: 01823 346116 Yeovil: 01935 413716

Website: www.somersetft.nhs.uk/dental-services

ADHD Somerset

The group is run by parents who have young people with ADHD or have ADHD themselves so they have an understanding of the condition, issues parents may face and services that can help. The group meets twice a month and runs activity days for young people so they can be free to be themselves and find friends with similar interests and needs.

Email: adhdyeovil@gmail.com

Website: www.facebook.com/adhd.somerset

Somerset Children and Young People - Health & Wellbeing

Parent Carer Toolkit

An area of the website designed to support parents, carers and family members to find the information they need to help with their role of 'being a parent'. ‘Parenting can be the most rewarding job in the world but at some point all parents and families need a bit of help.

We have identified the most common topics that affect families and linked these to recommended web-based information and local support’.

Website: www.cypsomersethealth.org/parent_and_carer_toolkit

Managing Relationship Conflict

Guidance and advice on understanding the impact on young people when there is conflict between parents and support to make changes, (including support for separated parents).

Website:www.cypsomersethealth.org/somerset_parents_and_carers__managing_relationship_conflict

SENDIAS

Somerset SENDIAS (Special Educational Needs and Disability Information, Advice and Support) can give young people and their parent carers information, advice and support about SEND. This can include information on Education, Health and Care (EHC) Needs Assessments and Plans.

Call: 01823 355578 Email: somersetsendias@somerset.gov.uk

Website: www.somersetsendias.org.uk

Caudwell Children – Free & Affordable Sensory Packs for Families

We know that many of our learners can benefit from sensory resources to help them feel calm, focused, and ready to learn. For families who may be looking for additional support at home, Caudwell Children offer specially designed Get Sensory Packs for children with a wide range of sensory needs. These packs are created to be fun, safe, durable, and easy to use, with many items small enough to take to school or use while travelling.

What the Sensory Packs Offer

A selection of sensory items to support children who may be over or under‑stimulated by everyday environments
Resources designed to help with touch, sound, vision, and self-regulation
Packs available for ages 0–3 and 3+, depending on your child’s needs.
Affordable options, with some support available through the charity’s funding programme

Access Card: Making access easy

Many of our families tell us that days out, events, and busy venues can sometimes feel overwhelming — not because of the activity itself, but because of the barriers around it. Long queues, loud environments, or having to repeatedly explain your child’s needs can take the joy out of what should be a fun experience.

The Access Card is a simple tool that can make a big difference. It’s a nationally recognised card that helps families communicate access needs quickly and discreetly, without having to share personal medical details every time. The card uses clear symbols to show things like needing a companion, help with queues, seating needs, or sensory adjustments.

Newlife Charity – Support for Families with SEND

Newlife is the UK’s largest charitable provider of specialist equipment for disabled and terminally ill children. Their mission is simple but powerful: to ensure every child with a disability can live life to the fullest. They do this by offering practical, fast, and life‑changing support to families across the UK.

What Newlife Offers Families

Child & Family Support

Newlife’s dedicated support team acts as the first point of contact for families. They help parents understand what support is available and guide them through accessing equipment and services.

Equipment Grant Services

Families can apply for essential specialist equipment that is often difficult to access through statutory services. This includes:

Specialist beds
Buggies and wheelchairs
Seating and mobility equipment
Other items that improve safety, comfort, and independence

These grants can be life‑changing—helping children participate in family life, school, and play.

Emergency Equipment Loans

For children at significant risk of injury or in urgent need, Newlife provides free emergency loans of essential equipment. This service helps keep children safe while families wait for long‑term solutions.

Play Therapy Pods

Newlife offers free loans of specialist sensory toys, delivered directly to families. These pods are designed for children with a wide range of disabilities and can support:

Sensory development
Communication
Motor skills
Play and exploration

Parents often find this a great way to discover what types of toys work best for their child.

The Den Coffee House – A Welcoming Space for SEND Families in Taunton

The Den Coffee House, based within Compass Wellbeing in Taunton, is a relaxed, inclusive café designed with accessibility and comfort at its heart. It offers a calm, friendly environment where children, young people, and families with SEND can enjoy time together without the pressures often found in busy high‑street cafés.

Max Card

The Max Card is the UK's leading discount card for foster families and families of children with additional needs. Families can use their Max Card at venues across the UK to get free or discounted admission.