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Find information about what is going on in your area, details on how to access services, organisations and activities in Hampshire, and the advice and support that is available.

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1. Over 90% of families in Hampshire organise their own journeys to school. They walk, cycle, use public transport, lift-share with other families or take their child to school in the family car. Have a look at Hampshire County Council's Travel to school page for ideas and information. For a minority...

2. 100% of school leaders believe that food and diet can affect cognitive function and children's learning progress, according to the latest survey results from HC3S, Hampshire's main school lunch provider. 90% of schools value HC3S as a partner in supporting nutrition at school, so find out more about how HC3S...

3. We would like to hear from young people in Hampshire about what you would like to see on this website. What information would be helpful for you that's not on here? What do you like about this website? What do you not like about this website? Any feedback...

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Family Information and Services HubNeed to find childcare? If you are having difficulties in finding appropriate childcare services please complete this online form to request help.

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Do you need some support responding to an EHCP or a Working Document? Join one of our online clinics where we'll guide you through the process.

Impartial Special Educational Needs and Disability Information, Advice and Support (SENDIASS) in Hampshire

Hampshire SENDIASS is an impartial Special Educational Needs and Disability Information, Advice and Support Service (SENDIASS) that aims to make a positive and lasting difference for children and young people with special educational needs and/or disability (SEND) and their parents and carers. We do this by providing timely confidential, impartial information, advice and support through our online resources, at events and workshops, via our helpline service and through individual casework.

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Hampshire SENDIASS is provided by Polaris Children's Services, part of a leading Children's Services Group with over 24 years of experience in supporting children, young people and their families to build brighter futures.

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If you can't find what you need, feel free to get in touch with us, our opening hours are Monday-Thursday, 9am-5pm, and on Fridays 9am-4pm . Outside of these hours please use the Contact Us Form. We aim to respond to all enquiries within 2 working days.

0808 164 5504

The Local Offer includes information about education, health, social care, preparation for adulthood, leisure services and impartial information advice and support. Hampshire's Local Offer (co produced with parents, carers and young people) aims to help you find your way through the maze of information to reach the best solutions for you/your child.

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Hampshire SENDIASS | Impartial SEND Advice & Support

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Hampshire SENDIASS provide information and support to Children & Young People with special education needs and/or a disabilities.

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Phone lines are open to parents & carers every Wednesday and Thursday, term time only, 9.30am to 11am on 01252 814835 -

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Educational Psychologist- Hampshire and Isle of Wight 

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Educational Psychologist- Hampshire and Isle of Wight 

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Ordinarily Available Provision and Targeted Support

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Ordinarily Available Provision and Targeted Support

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Hampshire Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) are an NHS service that aims to help young people up to the age of 18 who are finding it…

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Avoidant restrictive food intake disorder, more commonly known as ARFID, is a condition characterised by the person avoiding certain foods

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Struggling with an eating disorder? Caring for someone who is? Beat is here to support you.

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An eating disorder is a serious mental illness that involves a person developing thoughts, feelings and eating behaviour which can take over a person's life and make them very unwell. Eating disorders can involve eating too much or too little and becoming really unhappy, worried and preoccupied with things such as weight and shape. It's important to remember that lots of people worry about what they look like and from time to time might be unhappy with their weight or shape, but for someone with an eating disorder these thoughts and feelings can have a serious impact on their life. It can impact on physical health, education and general daily living, such as hanging out with friends, spending time with family, going out and taking part in activities.

There is no one cause of an eating disorder. Young people who develop eating difficulties and disorders often tell us that eating or not eating can be a way of coping with feelings of sadness, worry and stress. Sometimes life stressors such as exams, bullying, friendship or family relationship difficulties and bereavement or loss may play a part in how someone copes or feels about themselves. There are also some personal factors such as having low self-esteem, experiencing anxiety or depression, setting high standards and being perfectionistic and identifying as LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Transsexual) are sometimes associated with people who develop eating disorders. However, experiencing any one of these things does not necessarily mean that someone will develop an eating disorder or difficulty.

There are many different types of eating disorders and all of them are serious. All eating disorders are treatable and a full recovery is possible. It is important to notice that you might be having a difficulty and ask for help and advice as soon as possible.

Here are some signs that there might be a problem and it's time to get help;

Constant thinking or worrying about food, calories, weight gain or your shape. You might notice that it is hard to concentrate on other things.

Reducing your food in order to lose weight and setting yourself strict rules about what you can or cannot eat.

Trying to do other things to lose weight, such as lots of exercise, vomiting taking laxatives (medication to help you go to the toilet) or slimming pills.

You might become tired and more emotional (tearful, irritable).

If you're a girl, your periods might stop.

Other people might start noticing and commenting that they are worried about you

Not everyone who has an eating disorder will experience all the signs and symptoms. Also, if you are experiencing some of these signs and symptoms this does necessarily mean that you have an eating disorder, but it is important to get help and advice.

There are a number of workbooks and self-help materials you might useful:

What's eating you? A Workbook for Teens with Anorexia, Bulimia, and Other Eating Disorders by Tammy Nelson

Getting Over Overeating for Teens: A Workbook to Transform Your Relationship with Food Using CBT, Mindfulness, and Intuitive Eating by Andrea Watcher

Body Image Workbook for Teens: Activities to Help Girls Develop a Healthy Body Image in an Image-Obsessed World by Julia Taylor

Self-Esteem Workbook for Teens: Activities to Help You Build Confidence and Achieve Your Goals by Lisa Scab

What is an eating disorder?

Meet the team at Hampshire Specialist Eating Disorder Service

Is there a link between social media and eating difficulties?

A Glimpse of Hope - credit Hampshire Cultural Trust and ICE Project

Social Media, Food and Me

What Not To Say To Someone With An Eating Disorder

Beat eating disorders: Sufferers - credit Beat

What is an eating disorder?

Meet the team at Hampshire Specialist Eating Disorder Service

Is there a link between social media and eating difficulties?

A Glimpse of Hope - credit Hampshire Cultural Trust and ICE Project

Social Media, Food and Me

What Not To Say To Someone With An Eating Disorder

Beat eating disorders: Sufferers - credit Beat

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An eating disorder is a serious mental illness that involves a person developing thoughts, feelings and eating behaviour which can take over a person's life and make them very unwell. Eating disorders can involve eating too much or too little and becoming really unhappy, worried and preoccupied with things such as weight and shape.

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EMTAS phone lines (Term time only)

Language phone lines for parents/carers, Hampshire maintained schools and SLA-supported academies

Phone lines may only be used to support communication with a child where an adult is present with the child for the duration of the phone call.

Please ring us on our help lines below for information and support with home-school communication or if you have any questions relating to your child's education or well-being.

All our assistants speak good English so if you can use even a little English you can call at any of the times listed below.

If you need an interpreter for any other language, phone EMTAS on 03707 794222 or email emtas@hants.gov.uk with your contact details and the language you speak. We will do our best to help you.

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EMTAS - Ethnic Minority and Traveller Achievement Service

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EMTAS works with children, families and schools on all aspects of practice, offering traveller services to pupils from Gypsy, Roma, Traveller communities; Ethnic minority services to Black and Minority Ethnic groups and help pupils learning English as an Additional Language (EAL).

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Families with children who are new to English - understanding the UK school system

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Families with children who are new to English - understanding the UK school system

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Within this link, there are lots of PDFs that can be downloaded in your home language. Information includes admissions, preparing your child for school and the UK school system.

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PACE Basingstoke, 27th February 2025 – CAMHS

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P.A.C.E. (Parent and Carer Events) – BASINGSTOKE

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Mental Health Resources For Children and Young People

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Free mental health resources, posters, lesson plans and activity sheets for primary and secondary school staff, and mental health professionals working with children and young people.

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We are the UKs leading charity for autistic people and their families. Since 1962, we have been providing support, guidance and advice, as well as campaigning for improved rights, services and opportunities to help create a society that works for autistic people.

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Definition & Diagnosis

The definition commonly relied on is set out by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. These criteria are presented in shortened form and are for information only. Diagnosis can only be done by a medical professional.

Inattention

Six or more symptoms of inattention for children up to age 16 years, or five or more for adolescents age 17 years and older and adults; symptoms of inattention have been present for at least 6 months, and they are inappropriate for developmental level:

Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work, or with other activities.

Often has trouble holding attention on tasks or play activities.

Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.

Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (e.g., loses focus, side-tracked).

Often has trouble organising tasks and activities.

Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to do tasks that require mental effort over a long period of time (such as schoolwork or homework).

Often loses things necessary for tasks and activities (e.g. school materials, pencils, books, tools, wallets, keys, paperwork, eyeglasses, mobile telephones).

Is often easily distracted

Is often forgetful in daily activities.

Hyperactivity and Impulsivity

Six or more symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity for children up to age 16 years, or five or more for adolescents age 17 years and older and adults; symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity have been present for at least 6 months to an extent that is disruptive and inappropriate for the person's developmental level:

Often fidgets with or taps hands or feet, or squirms in seat.

Often leaves seat in situations when remaining seated is expected.

Often runs about or climbs in situations where it is not appropriate (adolescents or adults may be limited to feeling restless).

Often unable to play or take part in leisure activities quietly.

Is often "on the go" acting as if "driven by a motor".

Often talks excessively.

Often blurts out an answer before a question has been completed.

Often has trouble waiting their turn.

Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g. butts into conversations or game)

In addition, the following conditions must be met:

Several inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms were present before age 12 years.

Several symptoms are present in two or more settings, (such as at home, school or work; with friends or relatives; in other activities).

There is clear evidence that the symptoms interfere with, or reduce the quality of, social, school, or work functioning.

The symptoms are not better explained by another mental disorder (such as a mood disorder, anxiety disorder, dissociative disorder, or a personality disorder). The symptoms do not happen only during the course of schizophrenia or another psychotic disorder.

Diagnosing ADHD in Adults

ADHD often lasts into adulthood. To diagnose ADHD in adults and adolescents age 17 years or older, only 5 symptoms are needed instead of the 6 needed for younger children. Symptoms might look different at older ages. For example, in adults, hyperactivity may appear as extreme restlessness or wearing others out with their activity. If you are an adult looking for indications that you might have ADHD you can take the WHO screener survey here.

Presentation:

There is a persistent thought from some parts of the general population that ADHD requires some form of hyper-activity. This is not the case. Based on the above criteria there are three kinds (presentations) of ADHD that can occur. Because symptoms can change over time, the presentation may change over time as well

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World Autism Awareness Week: Primary school learning resources

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Parent - How to contribute to an assessment

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Parent - How to contribute to an assessment

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Parent - How to contribute to a request for assessment

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Parent - How to contribute to a request for assessment

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Parent - How to contribute ahead of a review meeting

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Parent - How to contribute ahead of a review meeting

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Selective mutism is an anxiety disorder where a person is unable to speak in certain social situations, such as with classmates at school or to relatives they do not see very often.
It usually starts during childhood and, if left untreated, can persist into adulthood.

A child or adult with selective mutism does not refuse or choose not to speak at certain times, they're literally unable to speak.

The expectation to talk to certain people triggers a freeze response with feelings of anxiety and panic, and talking is impossible.

In time, the person may learn to anticipate the situations that provoke this distressing reaction and do all they can to avoid them.

However, people with selective mutism are able to speak freely to certain people, such as close family and friends, when nobody else is around to trigger the freeze response.

Selective mutism affects about 1 in 140 young children. It's more common in girls and children who have recently migrated from their country of birth.

Signs of selective mutism

Selective mutism can start at any age, but most often starts in early childhood, between age 2 and 4. It's often first noticed when the child starts to interact with people outside their family, such as when they begin nursery or school.

The main warning sign is the marked contrast in the child's ability to engage with different people, characterised by a sudden stillness and frozen facial expression when they're expected to talk to someone who's outside their comfort zone.

They may avoid eye contact and appear:

nervous, uneasy or socially awkward

rude, disinterested or sulky

clingy

shy and withdrawn

stiff, tense or poorly co-ordinated

stubborn or aggressive, having temper tantrums when they get home from school, or getting angry when questioned by parents

More confident children with selective mutism can use gestures to communicate - for example, they may nod for "yes" or shake their head for "no".

But more severely affected children tend to avoid any form of communication - spoken, written or gestured.

Some children may manage to respond with a few words, or they may speak in an altered voice, such as a whisper.

What causes selective mutism

Experts regard selective mutism as a fear ( phobia) of talking to certain people. The cause is not always clear, but it's known to be associated with anxiety.

The child will usually have a tendency to anxiety and have difficulty taking everyday events in their stride.

Find out more about anxiety in children.

Many children become too distressed to speak when separated from their parents and transfer this anxiety to the adults who try to settle them.

If they have a speech and language disorder or hearing problem, it can make speaking even more stressful.

Some children have trouble processing sensory information such as loud noise and jostling from crowds - a condition known as sensory integration dysfunction.

This can make them "shut down" and be unable to speak when overwhelmed in a busy environment. Again, their anxiety can transfer to other people in that environment.

When mutism occurs as a symptom of post-traumatic stress, it follows a very different pattern and the child suddenly stops talking in environments where they previously had no difficulty.

Another misconception is that a child with selective mutism is controlling or manipulative, or has autism. There's no relationship between selective mutism and autism, although a child may have both.

Diagnosing selective mutism

Left untreated, selective mutism can lead to isolation, low self-esteem and social anxiety disorder. It can continue into adolescence and adulthood if not managed.

Diagnosis in children

A child can successfully overcome selective mutism if it's diagnosed at an early age and appropriately managed.

It's important for selective mutism to be recognised early by families and schools so they can work together to reduce a child's anxiety. Staff in early years settings and schools may receive training so they're able to provide appropriate support.

If you suspect your child has selective mutism and help is not available, or there are additional concerns - for example, the child struggles to understand instructions or follow routines - speak to a GP and ask them to refer you to a local specialist service for a formal diagnosis.

You can also contact a speech and language therapy clinic directly. Do not accept the opinion that your child will grow out of it or they are "just shy".

Your GP or local integrated care board (ICB) should be able to give you the telephone number of your nearest NHS speech and language therapy service or another specialist service that can help in your area.

Your child may also need to see a mental health professional or school educational psychologist.

The clinician may initially want to talk to you without your child present, so you can speak freely about any anxieties you have about your child's development or behaviour.

They'll want to find out whether there's a history of anxiety disorders in the family, and whether anything is causing distress, such as a disrupted routine or difficulty learning a second language. They'll also look at behavioural characteristics and take a full medical history.

A person with selective mutism may not be able to speak during their assessment, but the clinician should be prepared for this and be willing to find another way to communicate.

For example, they may encourage a child with selective mutism to communicate through their parents, or suggest that older children or adults write down their responses or use a computer. They may watch the child playing or watch a video of them speaking in a comfortable environment.

Diagnosis in adults

It's possible for adults to overcome selective mutism, although they may continue to experience the psychological and practical effects of spending years without social interaction or not being able to reach their academic or occupational potential.

Adults will ideally be seen by a mental health professional with access to support from a speech and language therapist or another knowledgeable professional.

Diagnosis guidelines

Selective mutism is diagnosed according to specific guidelines. These include observations about the person concerned as outlined:

they do not speak in specific situations, such as during school lessons or when they can be overheard in public

they can speak normally in situations where they feel comfortable, such as when they're alone with parents at home, or in their empty classroom or bedroom

their inability to speak to certain people has lasted for at least 1 month (2 months in a new setting)

their inability to speak interferes with their ability to function in that setting

their inability to speak is not better explained by another behavioural, mental or communication disorder

Associated difficulties

A child with selective mutism will often have other fears and social anxieties, and they may also have additional speech and language difficulties.

They're often wary of doing anything that draws attention to them because they think that by doing so, people will expect them to talk.

For example, a child may not do their best in class after seeing other children being asked to read out good work, or they may be afraid to change their routine in case this provokes comments or questions. Many have a general fear of making mistakes.

Accidents and urinary infections may result from being unable to ask to use the toilet and holding on for hours at a time. School-aged children may avoid eating and drinking throughout the day so they do not need to excuse themselves.

Children may have difficulty with homework assignments or certain topics because they're unable to ask questions in class.

Teenagers may not develop independence because they're afraid to leave the house unaccompanied. And adults may lack qualifications because they're unable to participate in college life or subsequent interviews.

Treating selective mutism

With appropriate handling and treatment, most children are able to overcome selective mutism. But the older they are when the condition is diagnosed, the longer it will take.

The effectiveness of treatment will depend on:

how long the person has had selective mutism

whether or not they have additional communication or learning difficulties or anxieties

the co-operation of everyone involved with their education and family life

Treatment does not focus on the speaking itself, but reducing the anxiety associated with speaking.

This starts by removing pressure on the person to speak. They should then gradually progress from relaxing in their school, nursery or social setting, to saying single words and sentences to one person, before eventually being able to speak freely to all people in all settings.

The need for individual treatment can be avoided if family and staff in early years settings work together to reduce the child's anxiety by creating a positive environment for them.

This means:

not letting the child know you're anxious

reassuring them that they'll be able to speak when they're ready

concentrating on having fun

praising all efforts the child makes to join in and interact with others, such as passing and taking toys, nodding and pointing

not showing surprise when the child speaks, but responding warmly as you would to any other child

As well as these environmental changes, older children may need individual support to overcome their anxiety.

Cognitive behavioural therapy

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) helps a person focus on how they think about themselves, the world and other people, and how their perception of these things affects their thoughts and feelings. CBT also challenges fears and preconceptions through graded exposure.

Behavioural therapy

Behavioural therapy concentrates on helping combat current difficulties using a gradual step-by-step approach to help conquer fears.

Techniques

There are several techniques based on CBT and behavioural therapy that are useful in treating selective mutism. These can be used at the same time by individuals, family members and school or college staff, possibly under the guidance of a speech and language therapist or psychologist.

Graded exposure

In graded exposure, situations causing the least anxiety are tackled first. With realistic targets and repeated exposure, the anxiety associated with these situations decreases to a manageable level.

Older children and adults are encouraged to work out how much anxiety different situations cause, such as answering the phone or asking a stranger the time.

Stimulus fading

In stimulus fading, the person with selective mutism communicates at ease with someone, such as their parent, when nobody else is present.

Another person is gradually introduced into the situation and, once they're included in talking, the parent withdraws. The new person can introduce more people in the same way.

Shaping

Shaping involves using any technique that enables the person to gradually produce a response that's closer to the desired behaviour.

For example, starting with non-verbal communication, gradually moving to making eye contact, saying short words and then longer sentences and, finally, 2-way conversation.

Positive and negative reinforcement

Positive and negative reinforcement involves responding favourably to all forms of communication and not inadvertently encouraging avoidance and silence.

If the child is under pressure to talk, they'll experience great relief when the moment passes, which will strengthen their belief that talking is a negative experience.

Desensitisation

Desensitisation is a technique that involves reducing the person's sensitivity to other people hearing their voice by sharing voice or video recordings.

For example, email or instant messaging could progress to an exchange of voice recordings or voicemail messages, then more direct communication, such as telephone or Skype conversations.

You could also record your child at home and encourage them to watch or listen to themselves speaking.

Medicine

Medicine is only really appropriate for older children, teenagers and adults whose anxiety has led to depression and other problems.

Medicine should never be prescribed as an alternative to environmental changes and behavioural approaches. Though some health professionals recommend using a combination of medicine and behavioural therapies in adults with selective mutism.

However, antidepressants may be used alongside a treatment programme to decrease anxiety levels, particularly if previous attempts to engage the individual in treatment have failed.

Advice for parents

Do not pressurise or bribe your child to encourage them to speak.

Let your child know you understand they're scared to speak and have difficulty speaking at times. Tell them they can take small steps when they feel ready and reassure them that talking will get easier.

Do not praise your child publicly for speaking because this can cause embarrassment. Wait until you're alone with them and consider a special treat for their achievement.

Reassure your child that non-verbal communication, such as smiling and waving, is fine until they feel better about talking.

Do not avoid parties or family visits, but consider what environmental changes are necessary to make the situation more comfortable for your child.

Ask friends and relatives to give your child time to warm up at his or her own pace and focus on fun activities rather than getting them to talk.

As well as verbal reassurance, give them love, support and patience.

Getting help and support

Teenagers and adults with selective mutism can find information and support at iSpeak and the Facebook group SM SpaceCafe.

The Selective Mutism Information and Research Association (SMiRA) is another good resource for people affected by selective mutism. There's also a SMiRA Facebook page.

The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists and the Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice can help you find professionals in your area with experience in treating selective mutism.

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Find out about selective mutism, an anxiety disorder that prevents people from speaking in certain social situations.

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Improving the health and wellbeing of children and young people.

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With your help, we can keep offering free support to those who need us.

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Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust and Barnardos are working together to deliver the Healthy Child Programme throughout Hampshire. This website provides details for access to health visiting and school nursing services, workshops for healthy eating and support with post-natal depression.

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Parents of children 5 – 19 can also be signposted to the Chat Health texting
service for advice 07507332417.

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Professional help

friendly staff

Need to talk? Whatever's on your mind, we can help. Even if you just need someone who understands or want advice for a friend.

The teams we work with help lots of people like teenagers in schools, parents of young children and mums with new born babies.

Health professionals

start messaging

Set-up a messaging service and support more people, more easily with the resources you already have.

You'll start conversations earlier, stop problems escalating and make connections where it's hard to reach.

I thought it would be awkward or embarrassing but it's actually not. Thanks for helping. ANONYMOUS USER

Happy with the quick and professional response and that my worries are being addressed and taken seriously. YOUNG PERSON, YEAR 10

I was struggling so much today but having someone at the end of a text that's willing to help is great. FIRST TIME PARENT

hello

I love being part of this service!
It's a valuable addition. STAFF FEEDBACK

hello

It's a great tool to provide a service to our client group in an accessible way. STAFF FEEDBACK

hello

We are excited to have this opportunity to engage with the young people in our area. STAFF FEEDBACK

hello

Parents are enjoying having this as an additional way to access advice. STAFF FEEDBACK

hello

We've had contacts from young people that would not have contacted us before. STAFF FEEDBACK

hello

Young people can 'park' a question, even out-of-hours, knowing it will be responded to appropriately. STAFF FEEDBACK

Confidential

and anonymous

It can be easier to say something difficult in a discrete message. Your conversation will be confidential, if a health professional is very concerned you're in danger, they may involve other services to help keep you safe.

Trusted

safe and secure

We work with teams across the UK so you will get help from health professionals near you. Staff share secure electronic records of conversations so you never have to repeat yourself and all teams follow strict confidentiality rules.

Convenient

helping everyone

Health professionals say setting-up a messaging service is a safe and manageable way for small teams to speak directly with lots of people. Messaging helps provide support at a time that suits everyone.

Need to talk?

how it works

We'll confirm receipt of your message immediately then you'll speak to a health professional who will listen, ask questions and support you. You only have to share what you feel comfortable with and you can ask questions too.

Most teams reply during normal office hours. If you message out-of-hours they'll reply when they're next in. You should always hear back from someone within 24 working hours at most.

If you need help in the meantime contact your doctor, visit a NHS walk-in centre or call NHS 111. If it is an emergency, dial 999 or visit A&E.

Your network provider will charge your usual rate for messages you send.

Start a chat

Health teams

set-up a service

We've been helping clinical teams set-up healthcare messaging services since 2012. As an NHS team we understand how to support you all the way. We will help you take the quickest route to setting-up a safe, secure and successful service so you can stay focused on providing high quality care.

"You have a great enthusiastic team of professional, experienced, supportive people"Zoe Warren, Professional Lead, School Nursing, Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust

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Need to talk? Whatever's on your mind, we can help. Even if you just need someone who understands or want advice for a friend. The teams we work with help lots of people like teenagers in schools, parents of young children and mums with new born babies.

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Speech and Language Therapy :: Hampshire Hospitals

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Initial sessions consist of assessment, advice and recommendations. Further treatment will be based on the results of assessment and patient specific. Treatment may include individual or group therapy and a home exercise programme. Advice, education and training to support family and carers will be offered as required.

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Resource library for families - Speech and Language UK: Changing young lives

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Our team of speech and language therapists have written these helpful info pages, based on our most frequently asked questions from families.

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Expectations for fidgets and transitional objects

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Expectations for fidgets and transitional objects

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The fidgets are provided by the school or brought in from home having been  first  agreed  with the class teacher. The fidget needs to be suitable for individual needs. Fidget designed to soothe, such as metal acupressure ring or stretchy string for pupils with a high arousal state. Small poppit or textured fidget for low mood and when slow and tired

The fidget fits in the hand and doesn't leave the hand

Transitional objects like small teddies need to fit in the hand the same as fidgets and larger cuddly toys need to stay at home

Fidgets are not toys and should not be played with

The fidget is one that can't leak powder or liquid if punctured

The fidget is reviewed to check how effective it is

The fidget is removed if it becomes a distraction for the pupil or pupils around them (an alternative fidget would be considered)

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National Domestic Abuse Helpline

Languages: English (call & chat); other languages available via interpretation services (call)

Phone hours: 24/7

Chat hours: Mon-Fri, 10AM - 10PM

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We help all those affected by domestic abuse by providing innovative and unique services. We work to ensure that victims are supported to recover and perpetrators are supported to change their behaviour.

Do you need support and advice or safe and secure accommodation?

We offer a confidential support service, simply call or email today:

If you are in an emergency situation

If it is unsafe for you to speak on the phone, after dialling 999 just press 55 for the silent solution.

You can also text 999.

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Digital referral for the 5-19 Hampshire Community Public Health Nursing Service

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Our service works with children and young people aged 5-19 to support their health and emotional wellbeing needs within school, home and community settings in line with the Healthy Child Programme. As Specialist Public Health Practitioners our aim is to work in partnership with families, health, education, social care and partner agencies.This is a Microsoft form, with high level security, access controls and encryption. You will be asked to provide the name, date of birth, address of the child / young person that you are referring and some details about yourself. This is to allow us to accurately identify the child/young person who requires support and update their health record. Your information will only be held on the MS Forms system for 1 month. For further information on the use of your data and your rights, please visit: https://hiowhealthcare.nhs.uk/application/files/3017/2769/3389/HW0124_-_Your_information_your_rights_leaflet.pdf