About the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) local offer
What is a local offer?
A local offer is for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) aged 0 to 25 years. It gives information and support services available to families in their local area.
Information on the local offer
Every local authority must:
- have an online local offer, and make sure alternative versions are available
- tell children, young people and families about the local offer
- talk with children, young people and families to find out what support they're looking for
- find services and activities in their area to support ages 0 to 25 years
- find services to support young people towards their independence to adulthood
- include transport services available and whether there are any charges.
'Local offer' is a term from the national government, we call our local offer the 'SEND Information Hub'.
Visit the SEND Information Hub
Download an easy read guide from IASK explaining the local offer (PDF, 459.8 KB).
Jargon buster
We also understand that the language of special educational needs can be difficult to understand, we try and explain any terms as we use them to help you.
Here's a jargon buster that IASK put together so you can see all the common terms and abbreviations you might come across.
Feedback about the local offer
Every local authority must get feedback about their local offer. They must show this feedback online and inform the public how they will make improvements.
We would like your views on your experience of using our SEND Information Hub. Take part in our survey to let us know what you think.
Or, find out about our latest improvements and how you can leave feedback.
Our Local Offer Directory
As part of our SEND Information Hub, we have a Local Offer Directory. Our directory can help you find support groups, events, and activities for 0 to 25-year-olds, including charities to support you and your family. We update it often, to try and meet everyone’s needs.
Do you run a SEND inclusive support group, event, or activity? Or are you a registered charity for those with SEND or their families? If so, you can sign up for the Local Offer Directory.
Simply register online today. If you already have an account, sign up to update your record or reset your password.
Visit our Local Offer Directory.
The Local Offer Directory is part of a wider Kent community directory. Read the full terms and conditions for using it.
Accessibility of the SEND information hub
We've made our website easy to read and understand, compatible with assistive technologies, and accessible.
Visit AbilityNet to find out how to make your internet browsing experience personalised for your needs.
My Computer My Way is a guide to the accessibility features built into whichever device you are using.
Find out more about the accessibility of our website.
Access to the internet support
If you know of someone who does not have access to the internet, they can use computer facilities at one our libraries.
At our libraries, we also offer accessible library services and facilities.