Whether juggling family and work commitments to provide care a few hours a week, or caring 24 hours each day, if you provide regular help and support to a partner, relative or friend because they cannot manage without your help, then Carers Link is here for you.
In East Dunbartonshire 1 Person in 8 is a Carer.
Parents are often at a loss to choose which school will be best for their children, you may be uncertain whether you wish your child to be educated in a mainstream or specialised school. For a child who has additional support needs, the right school and support system can make such a difference. Many parents find visiting schools and nurseries to be a useful approach, as there can be huge differences in the support available. It may also be a good idea to ask other parents how their child has found school life and what their experience has been.
If your child requires additional support to make the most of their education there are legal imperatives the education authority need to adhere to. Parent friendly guides to Education (Additional Support for Learning)(Scotland) Act have been published by Enquire and are available here.
Enquire is one of the specialist organisations for children who need extra support for learning and operates the Scottish advice and information Service (0845 123 2303)
In addition to the advocacy service provided by Carers Link, if a parent disagrees with a Local Authority's decision regarding the provision or services to meet their child's/young person's Additional Support Needs there are 2 further sources of specialist help:
Education Law Unit - Scotland’s expert legal resource in the field of school education, with a particular focus on tackling discrimination, promoting human rights and the rights of disabled pupils and pupils with additional support needs (0141 445 1955)
I.S.E.A Scotland (Independent specialist educational advocacy) 0131 454 0096
Information for parents concerned about their child’s education within East Dunbartonshire can be obtained from the School’s Provision and Transport Department. The Additional Support Needs section is based in Bearsden 0141 578 8723
In East Dunbartonshire there are 2 schools for children with additional needs:
Campsie View, Lenzie provides education for pupils in East Dunbartonshire aged 2 to 19 with complex learning difficulties.
Merkland, Kirkintilloch provides education for primary and secondary pupils with additional support needs arising from learning difficulties, communication and language difficulties, sensory impairments and a range of medical needs.
Most colleges and universities will have their own Disability Advisors and it is always advisable to contact them before you apply to discuss your older child’s needs. In addition there are 2 organisations that may be able to provide further help or advice:
Skill Scotland operates an information and advice service and provides a range of publications on issues such as support and funding.
Careers Scotland offers tailored support to individuals including those with additional support needs whatever their career aspirations
