CWD screening resource checklist

Step by step

1. Universal and early support

   For North residents, check the Family Hubs Digital Front Door, which includes Family Information Service functions. For West residents, check Family Hubs and the separate Families Information Service directory. Also consider ordinary community activities, HAF provision where eligible and Access Compass for disability-specific practical support.

2. SEND pathway support

   Check the North or West SEND Local Offer, school SENCO / Assess-Plan-Do-Review support, EHC needs assessment information, transport guidance and preparing-for-adulthood guidance where age-appropriate.

3. Advice and advocacy

   Signpost SENDIASS for impartial SEND rights and process advice, especially where the family feels stuck with school, EHC plans, social care information, appeals or disagreement.

4. Parent carer and peer support

   Consider Northamptonshire Parent Carer Voices, Northamptonshire Carers and relevant disability-specific groups such as Little Miracles where the need is isolation, peer advice, workshops, carer pressure or navigating services.

5. Disability-specific support

   Check Action for Children daytime/evening short-break clubs, assessed overnight breaks where needed, benefits advice, equipment/mobility routes, sensory support, autism/ADHD support, and the Disabled Children's Register / SEND newsletters for updates. Use the correct council Local Offer for local schedules and detailed eligibility.

6. When to escalate

   Use Northamptonshire Children’s Trust / CWD routes when needs are significant, complex or unsafe, or where the family needs a social care assessment, respite or direct payments. Considering universal and targeted options can help explain need, but is not a test or a barrier to statutory help. If there is a safeguarding concern, use the safeguarding route without waiting for an Early Help assessment.