The BDFA is here to support families through every step of the Batten’s journey. One of the many considerations for all families is their child’s education and how they can receive the best possible educational support. The BDFA helpline is there to help with any questions or support that families and professionals may require on the subject of education.

The BDFA is also very fortunate to have Barbara Raybould as our Education Liaison Link. Barbara is available to assist families with information, advice and advocacy on matters relating to Special Education Needs. Barbara can be contacted on barbara.raybould@btinternet.com - 07939511205/01932 858828

There are many organisations set up to support families and also places to seek further information. Below is further information on some of these organisations that we hope you will find helpful.

ACE

http://www.ace-ed.org.uk

Ace is an independent advice centre for parents, offering information about state education in England and Wales for 5-16 year olds.

Early Support

http://www.education.gov.uk/childrenandyoungpeople/sen/earlysupport

Early Support is a national programme to improve the way that services for young children with disabilities in England work with families. Early Support promotes services for families and children that work in partnership with parents and carers, so that families are at the heart of discussion and decision making about their children.

IPSEA

http://www.ipsea.org.uk/

IPSEA is a national charity providing free, legally based advice to families who have children with Special Education Needs.

Nasen

http://www.nasen.org.uk/

Nasen is an organisation which aims to promote the education, training, advancement and development of all those with special and additional support needs.

Network 81

http://www.network81.org/

Network 81 us a national network if parents working towards properly resourced education for children with Special Educational Needs. Network 81 run a helpline providing advice and support, have befrienders who can support parents at meetings and also run a range to training events.

Portage

http://www.portage.org.uk/

The National Portage Association is a home visiting educational service for pre-school children with additional support needs and their families.

Contact a Family

http://www.cafamily.org.uk/families/rightsandentitlements/education.html

Contact a family provides information, support and advice on educational issues for parents of disabled children and publishes a guide for parents.

Parents For Inclusion

http://www.parentsforinclusion.org/pihomepage.htm

Parents For Inclusion are an organisation of promoting inclusion of disabled children so that they can learn, make friends and have a voice. The organisation runs a helpline, training and runs inclusion groups for parents in the South London area.

Useful documents to download

 BDRSA Teach and Be Taught leaflet (PDF)