How We Support Children & Young People with SEND
At AJ & Friends, supporting children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) is at the heart of everything we do. Our organisation was founded because of lived experience — we understand what families go through, and we are committed to walking alongside you.
The needs we support
We provide care and support for children and young people with a wide range of needs, including but not limited to:
Complex physical health needs and life-limiting conditions
Learning disabilities and developmental delays
Autism spectrum conditions
Mental health and emotional wellbeing needs
Multiple and profound needs requiring specialist care
How we assess and plan for each child
Every child who comes to AJ & Friends is treated as an individual. Before any support begins, we work closely with families, the child’s social worker, and other professionals to understand their specific needs, preferences, and goals.
We use this information to develop a personalised support plan, which is reviewed regularly and updated as the child’s needs change. Families are always involved in this process.
Involving families and young people
We believe families are experts in their child’s needs. We actively involve parents, carers, and, where appropriate, children and young people themselves in decisions about their care and support.
We hold regular reviews with families and encourage open, honest communication at all times. You can contact us at any time if you have concerns or questions about your child’s support.
Our staff and expertise
Our team is trained and experienced in supporting children with complex and specialist needs. All staff complete mandatory safeguarding training and receive ongoing professional development relevant to the needs of the children we support.
We work in partnership with health, education, and social care professionals to ensure each child receives joined-up, coordinated support.
Inclusion in activities
We are committed to ensuring that every child we support can participate fully in the activities and opportunities we provide, regardless of their needs. We make reasonable adjustments to ensure our sessions, clubs, and activities are accessible to all.
Raising a concern about SEND support
If you have a concern about the support your child is receiving, please speak to us as soon as possible. In the first instance, contact Beverley Williams, Chair and Proprietor, at BeverleyWilliams@ajandfriends.co.uk or by calling 07950 236050.
Our full Complaints Policy is available on our Policies & Documents page.