Useful Contacts for SEN Families

The SEND Information, Advice & Support Service covers education, health, and social care for ages 0–25. They offer free, impartial, confidential advice on EHCPs, school placements, exclusions, health needs, social care assessments, and navigating the SEND system in Milton Keynes.

A group of parents and carers who work alongside Milton Keynes City Council to improve services for SEND families. PACA provides peer support, runs events, and ensures parent voices are heard in local policy decisions.

The official directory of SEND support available in Milton Keynes — covering social activities, short breaks, parent courses, transition planning, and much more. Every local authority is required by law to publish a Local Offer, and MK’s is a comprehensive starting point.

A specialist team of social workers and assistants within Milton Keynes City Council who assess needs and provide care support for children with disabilities. They can arrange short breaks, direct payments, specialist equipment, and family support.

All parents and carers of children with SEND are entitled to a carer’s assessment. CarersMK helps you understand your rights, access respite, join support groups, and look after your own wellbeing. They also offer emergency planning and young carer support.

The National Autistic Society’s local branch in Milton Keynes. They arrange events, social groups, coffee mornings, and family meetings. A welcoming community for autistic children, young people, and their families.

A young carers support service for ages 5–25 in Milton Keynes. CHUMS provides emotional wellbeing support, counselling, group work, and activities for children and young people who are carers or who need mental health support.

The UK’s largest grant-giving charity for families on low incomes raising disabled or seriously ill children. They can help with equipment, family breaks, computers, white goods, clothing, and kitchen appliances. Apply directly on their website.

Provides equipment grants, an emergency equipment service (decision within 72 hours), and equipment loans for disabled children. Also offers a nurse-led helpline, support, and campaigns on behalf of families.

Provides grants for specialist equipment such as powered wheelchairs, communication aids, specialist car seats, trikes, and sensory equipment. They focus specifically on items that improve a child’s quality of life and independence.

Provides mobility equipment, support, and advice for disabled children and young people. AFK also offers employment support programmes for young adults with disabilities, helping them into work and training.

Supports families with children who have neurological conditions (brain conditions). Cerebra offers free, practical guides on sleep, behaviour, education rights, and legal advice. Their sleep service is particularly well-regarded by parents.

Specialist sleep support for children with SEND. Their trained sleep advisors offer practical, tailored strategies for children with additional needs — covering bedtime routines, night waking, early rising, and sleep environment.

Provides information, support, and workshops for families of children with severe learning disabilities whose behaviour is described as challenging. Their helpline, factsheets, and online resources are all free.

One of the UK’s leading disability charities. Scope offers a helpline, online community, and expert advice on benefits, education, employment, and independent living. A strong general starting point if you’re not sure where to turn.