Launch of new service for local children with disabilities

[weezypops]

NHS South East Essex is launching an exciting new service for children and young people with disabilities and their families on Thursday 17 February 2011 at the Lighthouse Child Development Centre in Southend.

The new service is provided by South East Essex Community Healthcare’s specialist school nursing service and is funded from the Government’s national Aiming High for Short Breaks initiative. It will mean that local children and young people with disabilities can have one to one support from a school nursing service healthcare assistant for a period of 6-8 weeks to help them to join in with mainstream after-school activities and holiday clubs. The new service can also help families with activities at home with their disabled child or young person.

Dee Quy (Specialist School Nurse), NHS South East Essex Community Healthcare who will be the team leader for the service said:
“I am delighted that we are able to launch this new service for children and young people with disabilities. There are a range of activities available, so the children or young people can choose something which interests them. Taking part in activities is likely to have a positive impact on them, giving them confidence and new skills.”

Children and young people with disabilities in the south east Essex area can be referred to the new service by any healthcare professional (including their GP or school nurse) or through education or social care services.

For more information about this service, please ring Dee Quy on 01702 508180.