# data[].attributes.body
On this page you will find Warwickshire County Council's Emotionally Based School Non-Attendance (EBSNA) Toolkit and supporting resources designed for schools and professionals working with Children and Young People (CYP) and their families. They set out a graduated approach to assessment and intervention to help support attendance and wellbeing and focus on prevention and early intervention.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Warwickshire County Council provide a range of public services across the Warwickshire area.

# data[].attributes.headline
Warwickshire EHCP need assessment timeline

# data[].attributes.subject
Warwickshire EHCP need assessment timeline

# data[].attributes.headline
SEND support groups for parents and carers - directory

# data[].attributes.subject
SEND support groups for parents and carers - directory

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
SEND support groups for parents and carers - directory | Worcestershire County Council

# data[].attributes.body
Studley High School Ofsted report

# data[].attributes.body
Call for free on 0808 802 5544 from 9:30am-4pm, Monday-Friday

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
We support main carers of children and young people, as well as parents. You might be a kinship carer, legal guardian, foster carer, grandparent or sibling. If you are the child or young person's main carer, we want to support you. Our advisers are trained and experienced in supporting carers as well as parents.

If you are a family member or friend, but you are not the child or young person's main carer, see our online information for advice around how you can support them. You can also encourage their parent or main carer to contact us.

If you are a professional looking for information about supporting the young people you work with, see our resources for professionals.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Parents Helpline | Mental Health Help for Your Child

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The YoungMinds Parents Helpline, Webchat and Email provide support and help for parents and carers worried about their child's mental health and wellbeing.

# data[].attributes.body
YourSpace Mental Health and Wellbeing Hubs for Children and Young People aged 11-25 available in community locations across Worcestershire.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
YourSpace Children and Young People’s Hubs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
YourSpace - ONSIDE’s new service for Children and Young People

# data[].attributes.body
Please find the SEND information report and SEND policy via the link

# data[].attributes.body
SOS SEN offers a free, friendly, independent and confidential telephone helpline for parents and others looking for information and advice on SEN. SOS SEN concentrates on helping people to find their way through the legal and procedural maze which is sometimes daunting to families who are trying to obtain provision for their child’s special needs.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Find out more about our JR Initiative, The PAP Project!

SOS!SEN is an independent registered charity started in 2002 by a small group who had spent much of their lives in education or related services. We help parents secure the right educational support for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

We now have a team of over 70 volunteers advising parents, many of whom have been in your shoes, seeking to get the right provision for their children.

We are able to fund the important lifeline we provide to parents through your donations for our services and our Surrey-based charity shop.

We provide a range of information, advice and support to help parents find their way through the daunting legal and bureaucratic maze of securing SEN support for their children.

Parents are not always aware of their children's entitlement to SEN provision; we help them navigate the process, with advice underpinned by current legislation and best practice.

I would like to say thank you to everyone at SOS!SEN for their direction and invaluable expertise, which helped me work through an appeal... Your workshops [webinars] on appealing against the contents of EHCP and SEND Tribunal video hearings gave me the confidence to represent myself, and succeed at a SEND Tribunal hearing, to secure needed provisions for my son...

I just wanted to write a huge and heartfelt thank you to SOSSEN. I attended the walk in session in Thornton Heath...and spoke to Sarah who was truly wonderful! I have been feeling very overwhelmed...and my head has felt like a tangled ball of wool. Sarah calmly untangled it all and gave me lots of brilliant advice and next steps to work towards...

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find out more about our JR Initiative, The PAP Project! SOS!SEN is an independent registered charity started in 2002 by a small group who had spent much of their lives in education or related services. We help parents secure the right educational support for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

# data[].attributes.body
Please see the description of the procedure when requesting for a Educational Health Care plan.

# data[].attributes.body
Support for all

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Here4You - No young person should ever feel alone

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Here4You.uk support young people's mental health by signposting youth, parents and teachers to immediate help and resources.

# data[].attributes.body
Welcome to our new style SEND Local Offer website. It has been co-produced with parent carers, young people with SEND and colleagues from other organisations including health and the voluntary sector. We would like to thank them all for their invaluable insights and contributions.

We have included lots of new information, which families have told us would be useful, and arranged it in age groups to make it easier to navigate. The work on the website is ongoing, and over time things will change and improve further.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Information and advice for families with children and young people with SEN and/or disabilities.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Welcome to the Neurodevelopmental service webpages. Please click on the below tabs for further information & useful resource.

# data[].attributes.headline
Autism spectrum Disorder - Umbrella pathway Worcestershire

# data[].attributes.subject
Autism spectrum Disorder - Umbrella pathway Worcestershire

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Service referral criteria are in place to ensure that this service works with the child/young people and their families who need and will benefit from further highly specialist assessment.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Information on making a referral into the Worcestershire Community
Paedaitrics Service for support with ADHD

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Learn how to touch type with the BBC Dance Mat Typing game. It’s a fun introduction to touch typing game for kids and covers levels 1, 2, 3, 4.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
TypingAcademy: Learn touch typing with our free typing practice

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Learn to type with 10 fingers and practice your typing skills online. We offer everything you need to master touch typing with ease.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Starting Well Partnership offers a number of parenting groups and workshops. All sessions are free to attend and run by trained staff and volunteers from the Starting Well Partnership. These groups include two programmes for parents or carers of children on the Autistic Spectrum.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Children’s mental health - Every Mind Matters

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
See tips and advice for parents and carers on how to support children and young people’s mental wellbeing, and give them the best chance to stay healthy.

# data[].attributes.body
If you're 11-18 years old, this page lists organisations and services that can offer you support and information. All of the contact numbers listed here are helplines, unless we've noted what they're for instead.

# data[].attributes.body
Video to explain General calming strategies and ensuring resources and environment are appropriate.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Herefordshire & Worcestershire Health and Care NHS (HWHCT_NHS)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Sensory Processing  - General Calming Strategies

# data[].attributes.body
Log in information:
Email: send@shs.shiresmat.org.uk

Password: StudleyHighSchool

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Get the highest quality CPD from experts at your convenience, with nasen's SEND CPD on Demand - The ultimate flexible training resource.

With individual and school subscriptions starting at just £199, boost your learning with convenient access to over 70 pre-recorded SEND CPD sessions tailored to meet the needs of the entire education workforce.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Get the highest quality CPD from experts at your convenience, with nasen's SEND CPD on Demand - The ultimate flexible training resource. With individual and school subscriptions starting at just £199, boost your learning with convenient access to over 70 pre-recorded SEND CPD sessions tailored to meet the needs of the entire education workforce.

# data[].attributes.body
This recently refreshed section provides support, advice, and resources for parents and carers of children and young people with special educational needs (SEN), as well as for professionals working within the SEN sector.

Closely collaborating with SEN professionals who kindly share their experience and expertise to our knowledge hub, we’ve built an extensive library of SEN resources offering advice and support in the following areas: ADHD, Autism, Education, Health and Care Plans (ECHP), Mental Health, Speech, Language and Communication.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
SEN Support, Advice, and Resources - Witherslack Group

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A library of free SEN support, advice, & resources created by SEN professionals for parents & carers of children & young people with special educational needs.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Support for Parents from Action For Children

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Parent Talk - down-to-earth parenting advice you can trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We're on hand to support parents, when they need us. Find answers to your questions in our advice articles, or speak to one of our parenting coaches.

# data[].attributes.body
Transition videos

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Home > Moving Up Moving up Emotional resilience for new school adventures Moving up and changing school is a big change for children and parents or caregivers. It’s a new stage of growing independence and separation – and ‘togetherness’ may look different. Fears and worries are normal as well as excitement, as with each stage […]

# data[].attributes.body
SEND parent carer webinar - Preparing your child for changing schools (Transitions)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
SEND parent carer webinar - Preparing your child for changing schools (Transitions)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to content

Watch the full video

Thinking of suicide?

Are you, or is a young person you know, not coping with life? For confidential suicide prevention advice contact HOPELINE247.

My whole way of thinking has changed. I feel positive about my future and the people around me. I'm now looking forward to the future and helping others just like me!

Thank you so much for the incredible support PAPYRUS and HOPELINE247 has given me. You helped me in that moment and it kept me alive.

I intend to continue to fundraise for and promote PAPYRUS. I am so proud and humbled to be involved with a wonderful charity, and to have received the support that I have.

Having been personally bereaved by suicide I understand the importance and need for our charity. I am surrounded by others who are as passionate as I am about saving lives.

* All feedback is provided by people who contact PAPYRUS. All feedback has full consent of the user and the user remains fully anonymous. Some feedback may have been adapted to keep the users anonymity.

Our latest news

Stay up to date with PAPYRUS; our news section is regularly updated with helpful advice and guidance, as well as information about our upcoming events and campaigns. If you have any questions or queries please get in touch.

Our upcoming events

Please see below some of our upcoming and exciting events including fundraisers and charity events we will be attending. For more information please get in touch.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Papyrus UK Suicide Prevention | Prevention of Young Suicide

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
PAPYRUS UK is a charity for the prevention of young suicide (under 35) in the UK | Call PAPYRUS HOPELINE247 on 0800 068 4141 Now

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Some people experience visual discomfort or disturbance when they read. Common symptoms that may significantly impair reading ability, or make reading very tiring, include:

headaches and eyestrain associated with reading and/or other near work

text appearing blurred or going in and out of focus

text appearing double or alternating between single and double

difficulty keeping place in text

difficulty tracking across lines of text

discomfort with brightness of the page or contrast between text and background

text that appears to shimmer or flicker

Symptoms such as these have a variety of different causes, some of which may be due to disease or abnormality, so they must be investigated by a professional who is qualified to diagnose them correctly and give appropriate treatment. Anyone who experiences such difficulties associated with reading should consult a registered optometrist for a full assessment of eye health and visual function.

While adults may recognise symptoms, children may not be aware of them, as this is how they always experience reading. For this reason, any child who is a struggling reader should be assessed by an optometrist to either rule out or treat visual difficulties. This assessment and treatment is to check the health of the eyes and to enable clear and comfortable vision; treatment of visual difficulties is not treatment of dyslexia.

All children under the age of 16, and young adults under the age of 19 who are in full-time education, are entitled to a free NHS sight test with an optometrist, and to an optical voucher to help with the cost of glasses or contact lenses. The NHS sight test is sufficiently comprehensive to enable the optometrist to assess eye health and identify the likely causes of visual problems that affect reading and other near work. This should include an assessment of the ability of the eyes to focus and work together correctly (binocular accommodation and convergence).

In many cases the NHS sight test is all that is required to enable an optometrist to identify a problem and provide appropriate treatment with prescription glasses or contact lenses. Sometimes, however, the optometrist will consider that further assessment and/or other forms of treatment are necessary. The most likely of these will involve full assessment of binocular vision which may need treatment with eye muscle exercises (known as orthoptics or vision therapy) and/or pattern-related visual stress which may sometimes be alleviated using precision-coloured overlays or lenses. Such assessments and treatments are outside the scope of the NHS sight test, so the optometrist will either offer these privately for a fee or refer to another practitioner, such as an optometrist working in a specialist university clinic, or an orthoptist working in NHS secondary care (hospital). All NHS hospital orthoptics departments and university specialist optometry clinics will undertake assessment and treatment of binocular vision anomalies, but not all will offer assessment and treatment of visual stress.

The vision screening that most children undergo at school entry (age 4 to 5) is only a test of whether a child can see clearly in the distance. It is not a comprehensive assessment of eyes or vision and does not test any of the functions required for clear and comfortable vision when reading. For this reason, every child should have a full sight test when they start school, and as frequently as recommended by their optometrist after that.

Some websites and providers of education resources offer coloured overlays, tinted reading rulers, and other devices that may make reading easier and more comfortable for some children. These aids may be helpful, but it is very important that these aids should not replace or discourage full professional assessment. In particular, coloured overlays and similar aids must not be promoted as the first strategy to help children with reading difficulties. If children have visual difficulties, then it is essential that these are diagnosed and managed correctly by qualified, registered professionals.

For information on how to make written text dyslexia friendly see the BDA's Dyslexia Style Guide.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
​Visual difficulties - British Dyslexia Association

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Some people experience visual discomfort or disturbance when they read. Common symptoms that may significantly impair reading ability, or make reading...

# data[].attributes.body
Warwickshire’s SEND local offer brings together information about the local services and support available across education, health and social care for families with children and young people aged 0 to 25, who have special educational needs and/or disabilities.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
SEND Local Offer - Warwickshire County Council

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Warwickshire County Council provide a range of public services across the Warwickshire area.

# data[].attributes.body
Advice and guidance for parents and carers to help them support a child or young person experiencing poor mental health or wellbeing.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Children who Cannot Attend School (CCAS) | Worcestershire County Council

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The CCAS process and panel works with partners to support children who cannot attend school.

# data[].attributes.body
Access support from other young people and professionals, all at your own pace

# data[].attributes.headline
We support families, parents, children and young people across Worcestershire to lead happy, healthy and fulfilled lives.

# data[].attributes.subject
We support families, parents, children and young people across Worcestershire to lead happy, healthy and fulfilled lives.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Starting Well Partnership supports parents, families and young people across Worcestershire. Our teams include Herefordshire Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust, Barnardos, Redditch and Bromsgrove District Councils and Action for Children.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Paediatric Occupational Therapy Referral Guidelines And Criteria .pdf

# data[].attributes.headline
Moving up! The transition to secondary school

# data[].attributes.subject
Moving up! The transition to secondary school

# data[].attributes.body
An animation aimed to help Year 6 and 7 pupils feel more confident, less anxious and better equipped to cope with the changes associated with moving to secondary school.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Moving up! The transition to secondary school

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This animation and accompanying teacher toolkit is aimed at supporting pupils who have recently started Year 7, or are due to start soon.

# data[].attributes.body
Pupil transition resources from www.youngminds.org.uk

Our pupils' resources will help young people learn how to cope with the changes associated with moving from primary to secondary school.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
We have put together some useful links and sources of mental health support so that children and young people, parents, carers, and school and college staff can get the advice and help they need.

We have also added a new module to the   curriculum for   and   schools specifically designed to focus on mental health. This important addition will enable much-needed conversations about mental health to happen inside the classroom.

The list below is not exhaustive, and many other useful organisations and services exist, but it is hoped that these will help children, young people and adults navigate the key resources and get the support they deserve.
Seeking specialist support for children and young people
Local children and young people's mental health services (CYPMHS) are continuing to operate and in many cases are providing support remotely. Children and young people or their parents or carers can also contact their GP or refer to  NHS 111 online . Local CYPMH services will also have information on access on their websites: many offer self-referral or single points of access.

NHS trusts have established 24-hour urgent mental health helplines in most parts of England for people of all ages. If you have urgent concerns about a child or young person, you can find your local helpline  to discuss these with a mental health professional.

And remember to refer to your local children's services if you have any safeguarding concerns.

These resources are dedicated to children and young people 's general mental health and wellbeing, with a particular focus on mindfulness with developing coping skills in young people.

Student Space is here for students through coronavirus. However you're feeling, help and guidance is available. Explore a range of trusted information, services and tools to help you with the challenges of student life. You can use their search tool to find the services available at your university.

Sleepio is an online sleep improvement programme which is free for people living in Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire.

Thrive helps you prevent and manage stress, anxiety and related conditions.

Students Against Depression is a w ebsite offering advice, information, guidance and resources to those affected by low mood, depression and suicidal thinking.

Mentally Healthy Schools :  an anxiety thermometer as a wellbeing measurement tool.

NHS IAPT : free online NHS adult psychological therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), for common problems involving stress, anxiety and depression. IAPT services can be accessed either through a self-referral by contacting your   or via your GP.

Cruse Bereavement Care :  Coronavirus, Bereavement and Grief online information, advice and support. Helpline: 0808 808 1677 .

: *  Looking After Your Mental Health Resources aims to support everyone to feel more confident in taking action to look after their mental health and wellbeing by promoting a range of self-care actions.

For young people who feel particularly overwhelmed and troubled by Covid-19, these resources are helpful ways to manage anxiety around the pandemic, with helpful tools on homeschooling and self-care during lockdown.

The  Think Ninja  app educates 10-18-year-olds about mental health, emotional wellbeing and provide skills young people can use to build resilience and stay well. It has been adapted to Covid-19 to bring self-help knowledge and skills to those who may be experiencing increased anxiety and stress during the crisis.

The  Every Mind Matters  website aims to support everyone, including children and young people, to feel more confident in taking action to look after their mental health and wellbeing by promoting a range of self-care actions. It has been adapted to include advice and support about mental health issues that may have arisen because of the pandemic.

Keeping in mind that parents, carers and school staff can often be impacted by children's mental health, we have provided some select resources that can help adults better support children, and also find the help that they themselves might need.

Public Health England advice for parents and carers on looking after the mental health and wellbeing of children or young people during the Covid-19 outbreak.

Resources for managing anxiety and improving wellbeing

Dealing with the effects of lockdown

Resources for building resilience

Mental Health at Work : Resources, Toolkits and Case Studies. Supporting Staff Wellbeing in Schools with a rich repository of information and easily accessible resources including videos and posters.

Sometimes, children need specific and targeted resources to help with problems they are facing. Below we have outlined some support available for particular issues, including loneliness, suicide prevention, eating disorders and domestic abuse.

DfE have published  factsheets for care leavers , setting out the support they can access during Covid-19, including one on their wellbeing and where to access support for their mental health.

Resources from  University of Bath  and the  'Tell Me about Loneliness' project provide advice and tips about how to tackle loneliness and are thoroughly rooted in evidence of young people's experiences during loneliness.

Helpline: 0808 801 0677

Youthline: 0808 801 0711

Studentline: 0808 801 0811

Operation Encompass   Teachers' Helpline staffed by educational psychologists, to support staff working with children and young people at risk of or experiencing domestic abuse (0204 513 9990, weekdays during term-time, 8-11am).

Children and young people can access free confidential support anytime from Government-backed voluntary and community sector organisations by:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Mental health resources for children, students, parents, carers and school/college staff

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We have put together some useful links and sources of mental health support so that children and young people, parents, carers, and school and college staff can get the advice and help they need. We have also added a new module ...

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Not Fine in School is a parent-led organisation empowering families & raising awareness of school attendance barriers (school refusal/ anxiety/ SEND/ bullying)

# data[].attributes.headline
Building your child’s resilience, self-esteem and confidence

# data[].attributes.subject
Building your child’s resilience, self-esteem and confidence

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Building your child's resilience, self-esteem and confidence Sign up now 0 Modules For parents 0 Different Age based programmes for children "We are loving the modules, I feel I have learnt so much and already seeing differences in how I am parenting, which I feel is having a great impact on the kids already.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Advice and guidance for parents and carers to help them support a child or young person experiencing poor mental health or wellbeing.

# data[].attributes.body
Transition webinar

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Supporting your child move to and from primary school

# data[].attributes.body
Advice for parents who have a child starting secondary school this year, with tips on the emotional and practical sides of the transition.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Starting secondary school - BBC Parents’ Toolkit - BBC Bitesize

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Advice for parents who have a child starting secondary school this year, with tips on the emotional and practical sides of the transition.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Transitions - starting a new school or college – Warwickshire County Council

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Starting at a new nursery, school or college can be a worrying time for children, young people and their families. Regardless of whether a child or young person has a special educational need or disability (SEND), some children and young people take changes in their stride, whilst others will need s…

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
There are many different Post 16 learning opportunities available for young people with SEND in Worcestershire. We have listed the different options below, but as opportunities change constantly it is always best to check with the providers first.

Whilst a young person is at school, they should be provided with careers advice and guidance from their school from Year 9 onwards. If the young person has an Education, Health and Care plan (EHCP) outcomes for further education/training should be included within their Annual Reviews so that students are fully prepared for transition into further education or training.

Learning can comprise of full-time education in school or college, traineeships, apprenticeships or supported internships. Young people may also be engaged in other forms of training intended to lead to agreed outcomes.

Students can progress through two main routes: full time education or work-based learning/training.

All students in education aged 16 to 19 will be expected to follow a study programme that offers breadth, depth and challenge. This should be tailored to their individual needs, education and employment goals.

Part of the study programme will include the requirement to continue to study maths and English unless they have achieved at least a C or 4 in their GCSEs. Depending on the level previously achieved, this could be studying for a Functional Skills qualification instead of a GCSE.

Skills 4 Worcestershire

Skills 4 Worcestershire is a website with a wealth of information about careers advice and support.

They have a section for young people with SEND, which has career advice with clear information about the options available: Career guidance for those with SEND, SEMH, and EHCP (Education and Health Care Plan).

In each of the sections below we have included links to the relevant pages on the Skills 4 Worcestershire site, along with other links. You might also want to download their Life Beyond School booklet, which is aimed at students with SEND, you can find the latest edition listed here: Choices careers and advice magazines and booklets.

You will also find a section for parents, Career options support for parents and carers.

Before deciding on your next steps, you may also want to look at Careers Advice on the Preparing for Adulthood section of the SEND Local Offer.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Post 16 learning options for young people with SEND

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Information about the many different learning opportunities post 16.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Post-16 and college education - Warwickshire County Council

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Warwickshire County Council provide a range of public services across the Warwickshire area.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
This section considers how best to support young people with Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN) to be included in school.

Young people with Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN) have difficulty in communicating with others. Difficulties may be experienced with:

using clear speech

listening to and understanding language

talking in words and sentences

social interaction

fluent speech (stammering)

eating and swallowing

Difficulties may be due to hearing impairment, cleft palate, physical difficulties, learning difficulties or Autism Spectrum (ASD). For many other young people there is no obvious explanation for their difficulties.

This is known as developmental language disorder (DLD). The Raising Awareness of Developmental Language Disorder campaign has created a video to explain more about what DLD is and this video from the University of Oxford explains how the term DLD was agreed and why it was so important. The NAPLIC website has brought together DLD related resources which you might also find helpful.

A number of fact sheets about speech, language and communication and associated conditions can be found on the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists website.

If the young person has needs further needs relating to cognition and learning and/or social, emotional and mental health needs then please refer to other areas of this guidance.

Speaking English as an Additional Language is not considered be a special educational need (although a young person may have co-occurring needs) Please contact the Ethnic Minority and Traveller Achievement Service (EMTAS) if advice is required.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Speech and Language - Warwickshire County Council

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Warwickshire County Council provide a range of public services across the Warwickshire area.

# data[].attributes.body
Making a referral

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Referrals to our services can be made by Parents, Schools, GP's, Paediatrician and any other health and social care professionals

Please complete the form below with as much detail as possible regarding the child, their challenges, and needs.Please ensure you have provided all details and contacts of any involved professionals working with the child and obtained consent from family. For more information see What our service offers or download our service leaflet here.
What happens next?
Referrals will be triaged and accepted if the referral criteria has been met. For more information see ' What our service offers' tab or download our service leaflet here.
To complete online referral
Do you live in North Warwickshire or Rugby Area?

Scan this QR code

Or click the link: https://forms.office.com/r/WrW95Er96w

Do you live in South Warwickshire Area?

Scan this OR Code

Or Click the link: https://forms.office.com/r/viUnBKQPt1

Alternatively, Download referral form to complete and post it our address on the form.

" Return to Occupational therapy

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Referrals to our services can be made by Parents, Schools, GP's, Paediatrician and any other health and social care professionals Please complete the form below with as much detail as possible regarding the child, their challenges, and needs.Please ensure you have provided all details and contacts of any involved professionals working with the child and obtained consent from family .

# data[].attributes.body
Lots of free resources to help with different aspects of Mental health.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Charlie Waller Library of Mental Health Resources

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A library of all the mental health resources offered by The Charlie Waller Trust, which provide practical tips based on clinical evidence.

# data[].attributes.body
Find your little big thing for your mental health

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If you are feeling stressed, anxious, low or can’t sleep, Every Mind Matters can help with expert advice, practical tips and personalised actions to help you.

# data[].attributes.body
Frequently asked questions

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Who we are

Connect for Health is a school nurse-led service that supports children, young people and their families in Warwickshire. We deliver key elements of the Healthy Child programme, working to identify and meet the health and wellbeing needs of the school-age population and give individuals the best possible start in life.

Public Health Message: Strep A & Scarlet Fever update click to view

Health & wellbeing support for Warwickshire families

Our service is here for all school-aged children (age 5 to 19, or up to 25 for individuals with SEND) and their parents/carers - regardless of whether they attend a mainstream school. Our team includes a range of healthcare professionals, who can offer you support with topics such as:

Healthy eating

Dental health

Friendships and relationships

Bullying

Anxieties about changing schools

Parenting

Behaviour

Fussy eating

Sleep

Continence

Referral onto additional services

Emotional wellbeing including stress and anxiety

And many more.

Support can be provided in a way that suits you, including:

Individually, face-to-face or by phone

In group workshops

Via our confidential text messaging services for young people and parents/carers

To access support, please get in touch using the details below.

Family health & wellbeing resources

Websites and resources for young people

Change Makers healthy lifestyles services

Change Makers Healthy Lifestyles Programme teaches Warwickshire families about good nutrition, staying active and other healthy living topics. Change Makers is a free service for anyone with a child aged 4 to 19, or up to 25 for individuals with SEND. We offer one-to-one support, parent/carer workshops and a seven-week programme. The whole family can get involved in activities like preparing and tasting food and playing games, as well as lots of practical advice and tips for a healthy lifestyle.

7-week programme

Change Makers 7-week programme takes you through a series of topics focusing on a different aspect of a healthy lifestyle each week. You will get the opportunity to learn about leading a healthy lifestyle, try new foods, cook some healthy recipes and play games as a family

Parent/carer workshops

The parent/carer workshop is a one-off hour-long session providing you with an overview of living a healthy lifestyle. The workshop will provide you with some useful practical tips that you can implement in your daily life.

One-to-one appointment

One-to-one appointments are offered to families with children that have complex needs or where our group sessions may not be appropriate. You will be taken through the same content as our 7-week programme with one of our lifestyle advisors.

School delivery

Change Makers also work within schools providing courses and workshops.

Change Makers is part of Connect for Health. If you would like to get involved, please contact us using the details below.

How you can access the service

If you feel that you, or someone you know, would benefit from our support or would like some more information about the service, you can get in touch anytime via:

Our role in safeguarding

Our service follows Warwickshire Safeguarding Children's Board policies and procedures and forms part of multi-agency services for children, young people and families where there are child protection or safeguarding concerns.

Meet the team

This is our countywide team, for local teams please use the 'find a school' search.

Help & support

For information about relevant health and wellbeing topics please expand the sections below.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Connect for Health - Warwickshire school nursing service | Compass

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We're a school nursing service which supports children, young people and families with a wide range of health issues. Contact us for free, confidential advice

# data[].attributes.body
Videos and information to help with transition.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
About the Educational Psychology Service

We are a team of qualified Educational Psychologists (EPs), Trainee Educational Psychologists (TEPs), assistant EPs, and undergraduate psychology students working across the county. We support children and young people with a range of complex special educational needs and challenging life circumstances, from their earliest years through to young adulthood.

All children and young people develop and learn in their own way, but some may need more help with certain aspects, for example with:

Their overall development

Specific areas of learning, such as learning to read

Social communication, playing with others and building relationships

Managing their emotions and behaviour

Mental health and wellbeing

Engaging with school or learning

Medical health needs that impact on their learning and their access to school

Uncertainty around planning for the future and their journey to young adulthood.

The support of an EP involves providing help and advice to empower others (such as parents and carers, families, school staff, and other professionals) to support young people's needs.

If you are a school looking for further information about how the EPS can support you and your students, please refer to the Warwickshire Educational Service (WES) webpages.

Spotlight on anxiety

We have produced a spotlight on anxiety (PDF, 264 KB) to accompany one of our webinars (viewable below). The document details local and national support for anxiety in schools.

Spotlight on low mood
Low Mood webinar - spotlight (PDF, 339KB)
Schools mental health network in Warwickshire

Six half-termly meetings facilitated by Warwickshire Educational Psychology Service with education and heath partners.
Schools Mental Health Network flyer (PDF, 362KB) Register for the Schools Mental Health Network
Transitioning

The Educational Psychology Service have produced a series videos to help support parents and children during transition periods (moving to reception, primary and secondary schooling):

Transitioning to reception

Transitioning to primary school

Transitioning to secondary school

Paired Reading

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Warwickshire Educational Psychology - Warwickshire County Council

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
"All children develop and learn in their own way Some children experience difficulties and need more help. Your child may show: problems with overall development; problems with specific areas of..."

# data[].attributes.body
Parent information sessions on Mental Health Topics

Parents can self-refer to attend workshops on mental health topics including anxiety, low mood, self-esteem.

# data[].attributes.headline
Children and Adolescent mental health service

# data[].attributes.subject
Children and Adolescent mental health service

# data[].attributes.body
Welcome to Herefordshire and Worcestershire Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS)

We provide a range of wellbeing and mental health support to children, young people and their families across Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We provide mental health help to children, young people and their families across Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If your child's school or setting can't meet your child's needs using the support they usually offer to children who need extra help, the County Council may carry out a needs assessment for your child. This is called an Education Health and Care Assessment or EHC assessment.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Education, health and care (EHC) plans are for children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), who need more support than mainstream educational settings can normally provide through their special educational needs support.

An EHC plan (EHCP) is a legal document which describes a child or young person's special educational, health and care needs. The EHCP must also describe the support required to meet those needs and the identified outcomes.

An EHCP can only be issued after a full EHC needs assessment has been carried out. This is to find out what the needs are and what provision may be required to support these needs.

EHCPs will be reviewed annually and updated at least at the end of each key stage - or every six months for EHCPs in early years settings - with new measurable targets and outcomes set to reflect progress and changes. These will be documented as amendments to the EHCP.

Planning for adulthood should be included in the EHCP from year 9, or age 14, onwards.

What is an EHCP and who is it for?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Request an EHC needs assessment - Warwickshire County Council

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
EHCP Annual Reviews | Worcestershire County Council

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If your child has an Education, Health and Care plan (EHCP), it should be regularly reviewed by the local authority. In Worcestershire your child’s school, educational setting or early years provider are responsible for arranging and facilitating the Annual Review. If your child is over 5 then it should be at least once a year, and if they are aged 0 to 5 then the plan should be reviewed more frequently, every 3 to 6 months. When your young person is in Year 9 and above, the reviews must include a focus on preparing for adulthood (we’ve included more information about this below).

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
EHC needs assessment documents and templates - Warwickshire County Council

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
EHC needs assessment documents and templates

# data[].attributes.body
Take a read of our range of our printable careers magazines and leaflets for parents, carers and young people.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Choices careers and advice magazines and booklets | Worcestershire County Council

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Take a read of our range of our printable careers magazines and leaflets for parents, carers and young people.

# data[].attributes.body
Helpful information and useful website for parents/carers on health and wellbeing for children and young people with additional nedes.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Help & Support | Health & Wellbeing Guidance | Compass

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Information and advice on emotions, health, wellbeing and relationships for children, young people, professionals and carers/parents

# data[].attributes.body
Providing support for people with additional needs and operates in South Warwickshire, although anyone is welcome to join no matter where they live.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A local Charity providing fun and friendship opportunities for people with Additional Needs.

# data[].attributes.body
SEND supported works with families and schools to better understand young people's underlying barriers to learning.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Consultants hold postgraduate qualifications in SEND and have extensive SEND experience, as well as a wide ranging background in class teaching. As a member of a network of experienced SEND providers in the area, we work in partnership with young people, their families, schools, colleges, universities and workplaces to tailor individual support. SEND Supported offers bespoke training to equip staff with the knowledge and understanding they need to enable young people to make progress. SEND Supported embraces difference and works flexibly and creatively to develop personalised approaches to learning. We are committed to collaborating with colleagues from education, health and social care, putting the needs of the young person at the heart of what we do. We can provide schools with an audit of SEND needs to enable you to plan strategically, prioritise pupil needs and deploy resources in the most effective way. We recognise our corporate social responsibility to contribute to the communities we work in and do our best to promote equality, diversity and inclusion.
SEND Supported recognises its responsibility for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. In accordance with statutory guidance, we employ a child-centred approach, based on a clear understanding of the needs and views of the children and young people we work with.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
SEND Supported - SEND Training & Support - Warwickshire

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Consultants hold postgraduate qualifications in SEND and have extensive SEND experience, as well as a wide ranging background in class teaching. As a member of a network of experienced SEND providers in the area, we work in partnership with young people, their families, schools, colleges, universities and workplaces to tailor individual support.

# data[].attributes.body
The Dimensions of Health and Wellbeing is a free online tool providing a personalised profile as well as signposting and information to support adults, children and young people in Coventry and Warwickshire.

Dimensions can be used by anyone and has many national sources of support, however local information is only available for those in the Coventry or Warwickshire area.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
I am looking for help for myself, or someone I support

# data[].attributes.body
Helpful videos and Information

You can access pre-diagnostic support including a telephone consultation with a member of staff from the neurodevelopmental team. To arrange this you can contact 01789 339570 and request a telephone consultation with the Neuro Team.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Neurodivergence Zone | Worcestershire County Council

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Information on children, young people and neurodivergence for families and professionals.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Ambitious about Autism is the national charity for autistic children and young people. We stand with autistic children, young people and their families to champion rights, campaign for change and create opportunities.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Parent Guide for Working Together with Your Child's School

Elective Home Education in England

The impact of Covid-19 on home education guidelines and useful links to relevant legislation.

Top Tips, Strategies and Resources for Parents

A collection of 10 practical strategies and additional tips to support parents of autistic children and young people.

A guide to help parents navigate equality law, rights and entitlements when their autistic child is excluded or at risk of exclusion from school

This resource outlines the legal duties the Equality Act 2010 places on your child's school in relation to the exclusion of disabled pupils.

The examples given relate specifically to autistic pupils and are intended to help you and your child's school avoid disability discrimination claims, where possible.

Exclusions

Advice and support on exclusions, explore the Autism Education Trust Exclusions resources

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Are you a parent or care of an autistic child or young person looking for guidance and advice? Explore our Parent Resources.

# data[].attributes.headline
Information for Neurodivergent People and their Families

# data[].attributes.subject
Information for Neurodivergent People and their Families

# data[].attributes.body
Within Coventry and Warwickshire we have the Information for Neurodivergent People and their Families E-booklet resource. This aims to bring together the different information and advice offered locally.

The E-booklet was produced by professionals from different organisations, neurodivergent people and their families. It provides useful information about services and support available for those who are diagnosed or who self-identify as neurodivergent and those who care for and support them.

The E-booklet is designed to be accessible and has links to useful webpages and also videos. When you open the E-booklet you can click on the save icon to save this document.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
24272 Information and Advice for Neurodivergent People and their Families 2023 V5

# data[].attributes.headline
HWDA - Hereford and Worcester Dyslexia association 

# data[].attributes.subject
HWDA - Hereford and Worcester Dyslexia association 

# data[].attributes.body
Hereford & Worcester Dyslexia Association offers FREE support and advice to all parents of children with learning needs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Hereford & Worcester Dyslexia Association

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Study Skills: Supporting Your Child With Their Exams

At this time of year, many students will be revising for upcoming exams and so the following webinar by the BDA (British Dyslexia Association) provides useful information about how to help them prepare by developing appropriate study skills. There is also a link to a helpful guide to Access Arrangements for exams that schools and colleges should provide for children with dyslexia, such as extra time, readers, scribes and the use of assistive technology.
https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/advice/educators/what-do-i-need-to-know/exam-access-arrangements
Dyslexic Thinking Skills

The link below to Dyslexic Thinking Skills is a user-friendly guide to how the dyslexic brain works and the strengths dyslexic thinking brings to individuals.
https://www.facebook.com/madebydyslexia/videos/906537180702592/?mibextid=rS40aB7S9Ucbxw6v
Can you spot a Maker a mile off?

Dyspraxia & Dyscalculia

In addition to supporting children with dyslexia, HWDA also supports learners with dyspraxia and dyscalculia. Please contact the Senior Tutors for more information on how we can help. The following videos give some useful information, too.

Follow the link below for more information about dyscalculia.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/disability-63464239?fbclid=IwAR2GKCgpjpvzjTGqZwLj734x5hW1XfsCYs2vPRYGTBNsKdY-6ThkU_tWjds
Hereford & Worcester Dyslexia Association offers FREE support and advice to all parents of children with learning needs

Our Parent Support Groups offer -

practical advice and help on ways to support at home

useful technology available and support with programs or apps

opportunities to discuss realistic expectations of provision in educational environments

opportunities to talk in confidence to those with similar experiences or appropriate expertise

free events throughout the year, with guest speakers covering a variety of related topics.

Whilst Dyslexia is our primary focus, we will always try to help with any of the related Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD) such as Dyspraxia, (motor skills) Dyscalculia (maths and numbers) or other similar learning needs.
Contact the Support Groups at -
Worcester - Frances Browne
Bromsgrove - Sally Arblaster

Email - seniortutorbromsgrove@hwda.org.uk

Hereford - Bev Drinkwater

Email - seniortutorhereford@hwda.org.uk

PDF Downloads

Click on any of the links below to download a PDF file full of helpful information...
Supporting Spelling " Ideas to support reading " Games to play at home to support Literacy Skills " Alphabet Arc Games " 5 ways to support your child with dyslexia at home " Useful Features iPad and Word " Assistive Technology " https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/dyslexia/about-dyslexia/what-is-dyslexia
Local Area SEND Information

2022 Worcestershire Dyslexia Pathway - PDF download
https://www.worcestershire.gov.uk/council-services/childrens-services/send-local-offer/send-graduated-response
2022 Worcestershire Local Area SEND - PDF download

The Local Offer puts all the information about education, health and care services, leisure activities and support groups in one place. It has two main purposes: to provide clear, comprehensive and accessible information about the support and opportunities that are available. The following two links take you to Worcestershire and Herefordshire Local Offer guidance.
https://www.worcestershire.gov.uk/sendiass/sendiass-support/sendiass-guidance-local-offer https://www.herefordshire.gov.uk/local-offer https://www.herefordshire.gov.uk/support-schools-settings/teaching-children-sen-disability/2
Education Health Care Plan - PDF download
https://www.worcestershire.gov.uk/info/20546/news_updates_and_feedback_send_local_offer/1614/send_improvement_plan
Advice and Support

https://www.hwsendiass.co.uk/
Advice and support for parents struggling with schools etc
https://www.hwsendiass.co.uk/info/24/send-support-ehcps
https://www.ipsea.org.uk/
IPSEA offers free and independent legally based information, advice and support to help get the right education for children and young people with all kinds of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

https://talking-sense.org/
Non profit help with Advocacy for SEND
https://autismwestmidlands.org.uk/
Local to Worcestershire: North Worcestershire Autism Parent Group (All welcome) Facebook page

https://www.specialneedsjungle.com/
Magazine online re SEND across UK

SEN support in Mainstream Schools - PDF download

Wellbeing and Emotional Support

Mental Health

If you are struggling with your mental health, or know someone who is, visit https://camhs.hacw.nhs.uk/ if you are a child or young person or if you are an adult visit https://www.nowweretalking.nhs.uk/ The Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust have teamed up with Split Second to promote their new song, 'Reach Out', which talks about the impact of the pandemic on their mental health. Video produced by Harms Way. For more information on the campaign and ways you can support us please visit: https://camhs.hacw.nhs.uk/reachout-music
https://www.youngminds.org.uk https://www.kooth.com/ https://www.hacw.nhs.uk/search/service/wellbeing-and-emotional-support-teams-in-schools-157/ https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/child-health-development/promoting-mental-health-wellbeing#article-top
Parents - Emotionally Based School Avoidance - PDF Download
https://www.family-action.org.uk/our-voices/2022/02/10/how-to-support-your-childs-mental-health/
The following article by HWDA President, Katrina Kear-Wood, explains how occasions such as Christmas can cause sensory overload for the neurodivergent and those with ADHD and offers strategies to manage the social and emotional difficulties they may bring.

Assistive Technology and Exam Access Arrangements

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PVAYB1ghjac
( BDA webinar ; Empowering potential with Microsoft)

https://www.dyslexic.com/about-us/ Its a company that sells dyslexia assistive technology.
https://dyslexia-assist.org.uk/for-children/revision/
https://www.jcq.org.uk/exams-office/access-arrangements-and-special-consideration
Access Arrangements

List of Resources for Parents and Children
https://www.patoss-dyslexia.org/Tutor-Index-Landing https://learn.microsoft.com/en-gb/training/modules/dyslexia-technology/dyslexia-spelling-punctuation-grammar https://www.madebydyslexia.org/learn-dyslexia/ https://www.barringtonstoke.co.uk/dyslexic-reluctant-readers/ https://www.nessy.com/en-gb/science-of-reading https://www.nessy.com/en-gb/dyslexia-explained https://www.dyslexia.com/about-dyslexia/dyslexic-achievers/all-achievers/ https://educationhub.blog.gov.uk/2022/03/16/how-we-help-schools-and-colleges-support-pupils-with-dyslexia/ https://www.thedyslexiashop.co.uk/ https://dyslexiaassociation.org.au/support/ https://www.thesendcast.com/tag/dyslexia/
https://www.sensorydirect.com/
Sensory products based in Worcester

https://keystagefun.co.uk/
Apps to help with spelling, punctuation, maths KS1 - KS2 but may help some KS3

https://www.teachyourmonster.org/
Reading and maths apps

https://www.cricksoft.com/uk/about
Clicker and Docs plus

https://www.listening-books.org.uk/
Often free or yearly one off subscription
https://www.dyspraxia-ed.co.uk/about-dyspraxia/
https://readeasy.org.uk/
A charity to help adults learn to read, you can search for closest scheme.

https://www.dyslexicadvantage.org/dyslexia-is-my-superpower/

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Parents - Hereford & Worcester Dyslexia Association

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Study Skills: Supporting Your Child With Their Exams At this time of year, many students will be revising for upcoming exams and so the following webinar by the BDA (British Dyslexia Association) provides useful information about how to help them prepare by developing appropriate study skills.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Community Autism Support Service CASS - Autism support across Coventry and Warwickshire

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
If you live in Coventry or Warwickshire with a diagnosis of autism, or are awaiting a diagnosis, we may be able to help you, your parents or your carer.

You can start by calling the Navigation Team and ask about available support. Our team is made up of autistic individuals and those with lived experience, including parents or carers of autistic individuals.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Home - Community Autism Support Service CASS

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Welcome to the Community Autism Support Service or CASS for Coventry and Warwickshire.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Worcestershire Speech and Language Therapy

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Share your videos with friends, family, and the world

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to main content

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We'd like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Accept additional cookies Reject additional cookies View cookies

Disability Living Allowance ( DLA) for children may help with the extra costs of looking after a child who:

is under 16

has difficulties walking or needs much more looking after than a child of the same age who does not have a disability

They will need to meet all the eligibility requirements.

The is between £26.90 and £172.50 a week and depends on the level of help the child needs.

If your child lives in Scotland

You need to apply for Child Disability Payment instead of DLA for children.

If your child is getting DLA for children but they have moved to Scotland, you'll need to report this change so they can get Child Disability Payment instead.

If your child moves from Scotland to England or Wales

If your child gets Child Disability Payment, you must:

Your Child Disability Payment will stop 13 weeks after your child moves - apply for DLA as soon as possible after moving or your payments could be affected.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for children

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Help for children under 16 with disabilities - DLA rate, eligibility, how to apply, claim form.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
This website places cookies on your computer to improve your experience. By continuing to browse the site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. For more details, see our privacy policy. I agree

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This website places cookies on your computer to improve your experience. By continuing to browse the site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. For more details, see our privacy policy. I agree

# data[].attributes.body
Pressure to do well in exams can be a lot, and it can affect your mental health. Here's our advice if it's all getting a bit too much.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
It's normal to feel stressed and on edge about exams. Stress is your body's natural response to pressure. It can help you focus and get things done, but sometimes it can all get a bit much.

Exam stress can affect anyone and it can show up in loads of ways, like:

feeling anxious or down

getting irritable and angry

struggling to sleep

changes in your eating habits

having bad thoughts about yourself

worrying about the future

losing interest in stuff you usually like

finding it hard to concentrate

feeling unwell - like headaches, feeling sick or tired

If any of these feelings are beginning to take over your life, there is help. And we're here to help you find it.

Coping with exam pressure

The pressure to do well can really get on top of you and only add to the existing stress of exams. It could be from your school, your family, your friends, or yourself. Even if the people around you aren't putting pressure on you, you might still want to make them proud. But remember, no matter what your results, your mental health is important too.

Whether you feel stressed right before your exams, or it builds up over time, here are some things you can do to ease the pressure:

It's important for us to look after our mental health and put our own needs first, especially during a stressful academic period. I recommend reaching out to your friends during this time, because they are most likely going through the same thing as you.

Niamh, 21

How to deal with exam stress

Exam stress can feel lonely and a heavy load to carry, but you don't have to tackle it alone. Lots of young people find exams difficult and it's okay to need support.

Don't hold it all in - try talking to someone about what's on your mind. If someone knows you feel stressed, they can have your back, encourage you and listen when you need them to. It could be a friend, family member, carer, community/faith leader, teacher, or anyone else you trust. You don't have to go through this alone.

Check out our tips below to help you get through exams.

In the lead-up to your exams

Think about what could make dealing with exam stress easier for you and have a chat with a teacher or tutor. They can help with things like:

a tricky subject

tips and tricks for revising

juggling different subjects

finding a calm place to revise

access arrangements

Asking a teacher can be nerve-wracking, but they've had loads of students feel the same way. Remember they want you to pass your exams too, so they're on hand to help if you need it.

We all have different needs. Access arrangements help students with special education needs or disabilities. This could be:

extra time to complete the exam

assistive technology (like a computer, text-to-speech software etc.)

breaks during an exam

If you think you need them, speak to your school, college or university to find out how to apply for access arrangements. Some can be sorted out by the school, but others need permission from the examining body, so it's best to talk to your school as early as possible.

Exam formats aren't always suited to the realities of neurodivergence and disability which can create extra stress. Asking for adjustments is not being demanding - it's about fairness.

When exams start

Avoid cramming in last-minute revision. This can be overwhelming and make you feel unprepared. You've put in the work, so focus on staying calm. Breathing exercises and grounding techniques can help dial down the stress before your exam.

I have found that putting in time for activities that I enjoy alongside revision helps me to de-stress, so I've started adding in time throughout the day to take a break and read or watch a TV show that I like. I've found that including activities that I look forward to in my daily schedule helps make revision feel more bearable.

Jess, 18

Sometimes, life can throw you curveballs that make it hard to study, like moving house, looking after a family member, dealing with a breakup or general life stress.

If life's throwing you something like this, don't feel you have to go it alone. Talk to someone you know or contact a helpline. Whatever it is you're going through, you deserve support.

When exam stress hits, it might feel like there's no time for self-care, or that you should be spending every second revising. Revising is important, but it's going to be harder if you're not looking after yourself.

Try to eat right, get some sleep, and give yourself a break - whether that's gaming or hanging with your friends. We're not robots - we all need a breather now and then.

Revision tips

Different ways of learning

We all have our own ways of learning. If you feel distracted or can't remember your notes, it might be time to switch it up. There are loads of techniques out there - check out some below:

Experiment with different techniques. One way might click for one subject, but not for others, so find whatever works.

The monotony of revision and endlessly reading notes can really put us off, so try mixing it up! Flashcards, mind maps, voice notes, videos and even teaching the work to a friend/family member/pet/wall (!) can all be used to engage different areas of our brain and keep it interesting.

Dealing with disappointment on results day

Not getting the grades you want on results day can be devastating. Whether it impacts what you do next or you just feel you could've done better, it's alright to feel upset. But remember, there is so much more to life than exams.

If you don't get the results you want, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Here are some things you can do if you're unhappy with your results:

When you're ready to think about what's next, talk it through with your teacher, tutor or careers advisor. They're there to help you decide what's next, like:

getting a re-mark

retaking exams

switching subjects

thinking about different career routes and options

There are lots of organisations that can help you find your next step, like the National Careers Service, UCAS, Not Going to Uni and AllAboutSchoolLeavers.

Once you know your options, talk them through with someone you trust. They can help you figure out what's best for you, or just be there to listen.

If something happened during your exams, you might be able to apply for 'special considerations'. Things like your health, grief and loss, or something happening that's out of your control can all affect exams. Exam boards might take this into account and add points to your marks, so it's worth speaking to someone at school or college. They can help you with your application for special considerations.

Sharing (or not sharing) your results

You might feel pressured to share your exam results, but you don't owe it to anyone. Young people have told us that agreeing among friends to not share results has helped. You could also chat to your teacher about taking the pressure off sharing results in class. It's okay if you're not up for it.

If you're worried about sharing your results with family, try writing down what you want to say first. If it would help, ask a teacher or friend to be with you when you tell them. If they don't react in the way you want, remember you've done nothing wrong. Talking things through might help calm the situation down, but it's not your responsibility to make them feel better.

Try not to compare yourself with others - their success is not your failure. Appearances and grades don't always reflect circumstances and only you know the work you put in.

Real stories about exam stress

Get help now

If exam stress is taking over and getting too much, you're not alone. These organisations can help.

This page was reviewed in October 2023. It was co-created by young people with lived experience of exam stress. We will next review the page in 2026. YoungMinds is a proud member of PIF TICK - the UK's quality mark for trusted health information.
Whether you love the page or think something is missing, we appreciate your feedback. It all helps us to support more young people with their mental health.

Please be aware that this form isn't a mental health support service. If you are in crisis right now and want to talk to someone urgently, find out who to contact on our urgent help page.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Exam Stress | How To Deal with Exam Stress

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
It's normal to feel a bit worried about exams, but sometimes they can make you feel anxious or depressed. Find out how you can deal with exam stress.

# data[].attributes.body
Top revision techniques

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Revising for your GCSE or National exams can be tricky. Just finding the motivation to get started can be tough enough, but when you throw in note-taking, textbooks and study planners, it can get a bit overwhelming! Thank goodness we've asked our Mind Set coaches to talk about about the revision techniques that really helped them. Watch this short video and then read a recap of their tips and advice below

Video Transcript Video Transcript

Rohan You need structure in your day for revision. It really helped me to get my head down.

Lauren So when I first started revising for my GCSEs, all I did was re-write out the notes I already had. About three months into it, so I wasted three months of revision time, I was no further on with my knowledge or anything, than what I was to begin with, because I wasn't doing active revision. I was just writing everything that I could see.

Rohan I had this technique, which was called look, say, cover, write, check, which essentially meant that you know, you look over the content, you cover over it, you say out loud, you write it down and then you check it. Going through that, it really helps you just solidify information in your head.

Baxter So I have dyslexia and reading in my head, it didn't really help. So reading it out loud really helped me remember key words.

Jacintha Doing active recall or testing yourself with flashcards can be very helpful, especially if you do it with friends, as revising can be quite an isolating event.

Milly Before an exam I think it's really fun to test your peers and what you know. Playing them games helps with that active recall before the exam and helps you see what key information you couldn't remember.

Niall For me, I put a mind map at the start of each jotter, just so I kind of know what I need to revise, so I can like tick it off, what I've done and what I need to do.

Rohan I love using mind maps because at the start of every topic, I like to write down everything that I know and then fill in any gaps later on.

Milly When I've been revising, I do like to use drawings, for example, the wall cycle. I like to draw that out and use words underneath to explain what's going on.

Jacintha If you struggle to study alone, doing video calls with a couple of friends when revising can really help. You can all go through the same exam paper and exam questions, and help each other with your answers. Make sure to choose your friends carefully so you don't distract each other.

Nung With my sensory overload that I've experienced quite often, I revise in smaller chunks, and kind of focussing on it for like 20 minutes, giving myself a break and then come back to it. But also, I have like a fidget toy that always had on me, because it helped me to focus.

Lauren I used sticky notes for stuff like French and English lit, so I would write down quotes, I would write down French tenses, verb endings, anything you can think of.

Jacintha I found it so helpful to embed Spanish in my daily life. For example, saving my parents under madre and padre in my phone, instead of mum and dad. Also, watching Spanish shows with English subtitles helps you get used to the language and the accent.

Shay I think everyone revises differently, and it's really important to remember that while you're doing your own studying. Find out what your own weaknesses are and work on them.

Jacintha There are lots of ways to revise, so figure out what's best for you.

Many people wonder how to revise effectively. Lauren found that one of the best revision techniques for her was active revision, which she found more helpful than just writing out notes. To revise more actively, you can try using flashcards, mind maps or similar techniques to help you practise recalling the information. Rohan used a technique called: look, say, cover, write, check, which essentially meant that you look over the content, cover over it, you say it out loud, you write it down and then you check it. Active revision techniques like this can help you solidify information in your head.

Jacintha suggests experimenting with different revision techniques. She says, "Doing active recall, or testing yourself with flashcards, can be very helpful, especially if you do it with friends." Milly liked to use drawings. She would draw out the water cycle and then use words underneath to explain what's going on, whilst Niall would put a mind map at the start of each notebook, so he knew what he needed to revise. He would then tick off what he'd done and what he needed to do.

If you want to learn more about why variety might just be the key to study success, then our study smart guide might be worth taking a look at.

Shay says that everyone revises differently, and it's really important to remember that while you are doing your own studying. Breaking your work into smaller chunks might work well for you, like Nung, who experiences sensory overload and found this way of working worked for her. Baxter has dyslexia and found that reading over notes in his head didn't help him. Instead, he would read notes out loud which helped him remember the key words.

Video Transcript Video Transcript

Josh Revising is a skill, and there are loads of ways that you can up your game.

Dr Vanessa Make sure you know which topics you need to revise for each subject. Check with your teacher about your exam board specification for this year and use that as a revision list. Separate your revision notes into subjects right at the start.

Dr Colton Use exercise books, textbooks and revision guides. Don't rely on your lesson notes only ,in case you've missed something.

Dr Vanessa Making flashcards, rather than just re-reading your notes helps you practise remembering the information, just as you will need to do during the exam.

Dr Radha Movement breaks are brilliant. Give your brain extra stimulation by moving your body and working your muscles.

Josh Keep a log of what you feel you have achieved, even if this is just crossing off a checklist. You'll be amazed how far you have come. Mock exams the best form of practise. Aim to do as much revision for those as you do for an actual assessment. Try and replicate exam conditions, so set a timer and go for it.

Dr Colton Every subject is different and your teachers will have really good advice on how to maximise your time. So take on board what they're saying to you and incorporate it into your personal study.

Dr Vanessa Be as proactive as possible with your revision. Use lots of different methods of materials. Check in with your teacher that you're revising the correct topics and keep track of your progress. People are not naturally good or bad at exams. It comes down to technique and practise at the end of the day.

We also spoke to our panel of experts to hear what they had to say about revision methods, staying well and making the most of your time.

Our expert, 'Anxiety' Josh Fletcher, suggests keeping a log of what you feel you've achieved - even if it's just ticking off a checklist. He says you'll be amazed at how far you've come! Whilst Dr Radha recommends movement breaks, which she says are brilliant for giving your brain extra stimulation by moving your body and working your muscles."

Memory expert, Dr Loaiza, says her tip is to make flashcards rather than just re-reading your notes. This will help you practise remembering the information - just as you will need to do during the exam. Dr Anna Colton wraps things up nicely by saying "Every subject is different and your teachers all have really good advice on how to maximise your time, so take on board what they're saying to you and incorporate it into your personal study."

Video Transcript Video Transcript

Dean McCullough Hello. I'm Dean McCullough from BBC Radio 1. And here's how I would create my chilled out revision playlist. I'm talking songs that are going to get you in the mood, but are not going to distract you so I would create songs that are going to make me feel good, make me feel empowered, but are not going to distract me.

And here are some of the artists that I would include: I am obsessed with Arlo Parks, there's something about her music and lyrics that takes me to a happy place. And that's kind of what you need when you're revising. I also love Olivia Rodrigo. Holly Humberstone and you know what, I'm gonna put Blossoms in there because, let's be honest, you need music that's going to make you feel energised, we wouldn't wanna be falling asleep when we're revising, so a bit of Blossoms in there, I'm all right with that.

And then I do like my chilled out pop. I'm gonna throw Ed Sheeran in here. Ed Sheeran for me, I can have him on in the background. I feel like he's not too distracting, unless we get into Galway Girl and then suddenly I'm in a bar. So yeah, I'm going to keep those guys in there as well. And if you want someone else to do all the hard work for you, genuinely head on to BBC Sounds. There are loads of relaxing playlists on there. You've got the Radio 1 relax stream which is 24/7 of really chilled out, beautiful tunes - there's something in there for everybody. Or you can listen to the Chill show. There are bands and artists and DJs from all across the world whose job it is to create these playlists exactly for this and I believe there is a revision playlist on there as well. So go and check it out.

You should always tell someone about the things you're worried about. You can tell a friend, parent, guardian, teacher or another trusted adult. If you're struggling with your mental health, going to your GP can be a good place to start to find help. Your GP can let you know what support is available to you, suggest different types of treatment and offer regular check-ups to see how you're doing.

If you're in need of in-the-moment support you can contact Childline, where you can speak to a counsellor. Their lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

There are more links to helpful organisations on BBC Action Line.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Smart revision and exam advice for your GCSE or National exams from students.

# data[].attributes.body
Key words

# data[].attributes.body
Do you have a favourite Revision technique?