Articles on Family Information Services (176)

  1. What is Cerebral Palsy?

    What is Cerebral palsy? Cerebral palsy is the name for a group of lifelong conditions that affect movement and co-ordination. It's caused by a problem with the brain that develops before, during or soon after birth. Causes of cerebral palsy include: an infection caught by…
  2. What is Down's Syndrome?

    What is Downs Syndrome? Down's syndrome, is a genetic condition that typically causes some level of learning disability and a characteristic range of physical features. Most babies born with Down's syndrome are diagnosed with the condition after birth and are likely to have: reduced muscle tone…
  3. What is Dyspraxia?

    What is Dyspraxia? Developmental dyspraxia is an impairment or immaturity of the organisation of movement that presents problems in coordinating movements. For example, people with dyspraxia may have difficulties with driving, cooking, riding a bicycle and sports involving  hand-eye co-ordination. It is an immaturity in…
  4. What is Global Development Delay?

    What is Global Development Delay? Global Developmental Delay (GDD) is the general term used to describe a condition that occurs during the developmental period of a child between birth and 18 years. It is usually defined by the child being diagnosed with having a lower…
  5. What is Hearing Impairment?

    What is Hearing Impairment? Hearing loss is a common problem that often develops with age or is caused by repeated exposure to loud noises. Action on hearing loss estimates that more than 10 million (about 1 in 6) people in the UK have some degree of hearing…
  6. What is Pathalogical Demand Avoidance (PDA)?

    What is PDA? Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a developmental disorder which is distinct from autism but falls under the spectrum. It is a pervasive developmental disorder (meaning it affects all areas of development) and was first identified by Elizabeth Newson in 2003, although it…
  7. What is SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health)?

    What is SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health)? Children and young people may experience a wide range of social and emotional difficulties which manifest themselves in many ways. These may include becoming withdrawn or isolated, as well as displaying challenging, disruptive or disturbing behaviour. These behaviours may…
  8. What is Sensory Impairment

    What is sensory impairment?   Sensory impairment is when one of your senses; sight, hearing, smell, touch, taste and spatial awareness, is no longer normal.  Examples - If you wear glasses you have a sight impairment , if you find it hard to hear or have…
  9. What is the Role of a SENCo

    What is the role of a SENCo (Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator) A SENCo is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the school's SEN policy. All mainstream schools must appoint a teacher to be their SENCo. The SENCo will co-ordinate additional support for pupils with SEND…
  10. What is Vision Impairment?

    What is Vision Impairment? Many people have some type of visual problem at some point in their lives. Some can no longer see objects far away. Others have problems reading small print. These types of conditions are often easily treated with eyeglasses or contact lenses.…
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Family Information Service

fis@reading.gov.uk 0118 937 3777 OPTION 2 0118 937 3777 OPTION 2

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localoffer@reading.gov.uk 0118 937 3777 OPTION 2 0118 937 3777 OPTION 2

Adult & Carers Support

CSAAdvice.Signposting@reading.gov.uk 0118 937 3747 0118 937 3747
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