Disabilities
Social and Caring Services is responsible for advising and supporting people so that they can live as independently as possible, ensuring that appropriate care and protection is provided where needed. This includes considering what help or support can be given to children who are disabled or have special needs, and their families/carers. People are encouraged to contact us earlier rather than later so that help can be given before a situation reaches crisis point.
When you approach the Help Desk a member of staff will talk to you and carry out an initial assessment of you and your child’s needs using guidelines which are used to ensure those in greatest need receive the most help. You can also ask for an assessment of your needs as a carer. If you are eligible for assistance they will then carry out a more in-depth assessment of your needs. If they are unable to help you they may be able to point you in the direction of other organisations that can.
Social and Caring services also has two Child Disability Teams who work with children with severe or complex disabilities and their families – if you prefer you can contact them direct as they have their own Help Desk too:
North - Tel: 01403 246450 (Covering Horsham, Crawley and Mid Sussex areas)
South - Tel: 01243 788122 ext 3166 (Covering Chichester, Arun, Worthing and Adur areas)
Some of the ways they can help you are with practical support such as care in your home, equipment and adaptations for the home, social work support, and short breaks (known as respite).
Information for parents and carers of children who are disabled or have special needs in West Sussex can be found on the publication 'Where do I go from here?'.
Information for disabled people and carers
Directgov provides a single point of online access to government services and information - including employment, financial support, rights, education, independent living and much more. This information can be accessed at http://www.direct.gov.uk/DisabledPeople/fs/en