Social Work Team for Disabled Children

The Social Work Team for Disabled Children (DCT) consists of social workers and family support workers. There are dedicated workers for early years and transition (for young people age 13-18 with a statement of educational need).

DCT helps children with a range of disabilities that have considerable effect on their daily life. This could be because of physical, learning or sensory impairment or a severe long term illness.

DCT establishes the needs of children through initial assessments (completed within seven working days) and more detailed core assessments (completed within 35 working days). The assessment is often completed with the child or young person and their family at home. The social worker may also speak with partners in health, education and other agencies involved with the child or young person to get a fuller understanding of their issues and needs.

The social worker will liaise with families to identify appropriate provision to meet the needs identified. These include a range of care and support services in the home, community or Direct Payments so that families can arrange support themselves.