Inclusion Advisers (part of Early Years SEND Support Service)

Cognition and learning, Communication and interaction, Education and learning, Information, advice and guidance, Sensory and/or physical needs, Social, emotional and mental health difficulties

County Hall, Taunton, UK

As part of the Council’s ongoing restructure, this section contains information that was originally created under a previous service model. While some elements remain accurate, others may no longer reflect current practice or team structures. We are currently reviewing and updating all SEND service directory entries to ensure they reflect the new arrangements and ways of working. Thank you for your patience and understanding while this work is carried out. You can contact Somerset Council teams through our Contact Centre on 0300 123 2224.

From 1 April we are extending the purpose of the Virtual School in Somerset to include supporting children with the most complex situations, managing crises and conflict, creating smooth transitions, intensive interaction and flexible education. We are in the process of updating this record which is moving into the Virtual School.

There are three phases in the Virtual School: Early Identification (Early Years – Year 1); Transitions and Flexible Education (Years 2-8); and Preparing for Adulthood (Year 9+). More information will follow later.

Qualified early years graduates support early years providers, including group settings and childminders, to develop effective inclusive practice for children aged 0 to 5. Inclusion Advisers have a high level of experience of working with young children, children with special educational needs, and their families.

We provide advice and practical support to all early years providers about early identification, and support for, young children with special educational needs and disabilities. We help facilitate their transition to a setting, and into compulsory schooling.

Through visits to settings, training, and local cluster meetings, we provide initial training and ongoing support to all staff in early years provision.

We work closely with the Area SENCO and Portage staff within the Early Years SEND Support Service. We also work with specialist Early Years Educational Psychologists, and other professional colleagues from within Education, Health, and Social Care.

Inclusion Advisers are part of the Early Years SEND Support Service.

How to make a referral – Early Help Assessment (EHA) and Supporting Documents – Professional Choices Contact

Email InclusionSENSupportServices@somerset.gov.uk

Somerset Council Inclusion Advice Line phone number 0300 123 2224

Inclusion Advice Line

Somerset Council Early Years Graduated Response Tool