Education for People with Special Needs

What are Special Needs?

A person has special needs when they have:

• A physical disability
• A problem with sight, hearing or speech
• A learning disability
• Emotional or behavioural problems
• A medical or health problem
• Difficulties with reading, writing, speaking or mathematics work

Special Needs and Education

In September 2002 the Disability Discrimination Act Part IV came into effect making it illegal for disabled children and students in education to be less favourably treated. Providers of education have to make sure where reasonably possible that disabled learners are no longer disadvantaged. The law covers all areas of education such as schools, colleges, universities, adult education and youth services.

Children and Young People

If you are caring for a child or young person with Special Educational Needs, you can get help from your Local Education Authority.

Adults

There are a number of places where adults with special needs can get education:

Age Concern

Age Concern offer recreation and educational courses for the Carer and person being cared for subject to the Carer being aged 55 or over. The range of activities includes:

• Computer classes
• Gentle keep fit
• Relaxation
• Art and crafts
• Debating group
• Gardening

Other useful contacts

• ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) - A free, confidential advice service to employers and employees
  Tel: 08457 474747
  Website: www.acas.org.uk
  
  
• Carers Information - Click on Carers Profiles to find a list of links that may be of use to you.
  Website: www.carersinformation.org.uk
  
  
• Disability Rights Commission - Literature and advice for disabled people, parents and others.
  Tel: 08457 622 633
  Fax: 08457 622 644
  Email: enquiry@drc-gb.org
  Website: www.drc-gb.org
  
  
• Department for Education and Skills - This is a government education site providing information on any area of learning for both young people and adults.
  Website: www.dfes.gov.uk
  
  
• The Department of Trade and Industry - Can supply information on a range of employment issues including flexible working and parental leave for both employee and employer.
  Tel:  0870 150 2500
  Website: www.dti.gov.uk/workingparents & www.dti.gov.uk/publications

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