• Replies 12 replies
  • Subscribers 71 subscribers
  • Views 2142 views
  • Users 0 members are here
Options
Related
Hints and tips
  • To quote someone's message, first select/highlight the relevant text, and then use the Quote button that appears
  • To "mention" someone, type @ followed by the start of the forum name, and choose from the list; that person will get a notification of being mentioned

Considering moving to the UK

WorriedM

Hi all,

We recently got a diagnosis for our son, 3 years old. We are not happy with the education or health system where we currently are, and we are considering moving to the UK (following a few job proposals). 

I've noticed the situation can be very different based on the local authority, in terms of access to special schools and nursery (he needs special setting). Any tips from parents who have gone through it lately? Local authorities you found helpful?

I would greatly appreciate your help, moving is stressful as it is, but on top of that we would really want what's best for our son, to support his development at this crucial stage.

Parents

  • Hi

    Sorry to hear you're having a rough time with getting the help and support your son needs.

    I would be surprised if anyone in England would be able to tell you they've had a wholly positive experience with their LA as they're notoriously underfunded, overstretched and bureaucratic.  Having said that, it's all relative isn't it.  Do I get the level of service from my LA that my son needs and deserves?  No.  Do we access a lot of support and services that I'm extremely grateful for and wouldn't get elsewhere in the world?  Very much yes.  (We're in City of York Council area btw)

    It might be helpful to share some of the specific challenges you're having, if you feel comfortable doing that, and see if experiences of people in the UK are similar and where they differ?

Reply

  • Hi

    Sorry to hear you're having a rough time with getting the help and support your son needs.

    I would be surprised if anyone in England would be able to tell you they've had a wholly positive experience with their LA as they're notoriously underfunded, overstretched and bureaucratic.  Having said that, it's all relative isn't it.  Do I get the level of service from my LA that my son needs and deserves?  No.  Do we access a lot of support and services that I'm extremely grateful for and wouldn't get elsewhere in the world?  Very much yes.  (We're in City of York Council area btw)

    It might be helpful to share some of the specific challenges you're having, if you feel comfortable doing that, and see if experiences of people in the UK are similar and where they differ?

Children
  • in reply to Louise

    Hi Louise!

    I really appreciate this honest answer.

    My son was just recently diagnosed, one of the recommendations was he needs an early intervention/special education setting, but there are no places available in the entire county. Reading the news, it doesn't feel very encouraging about the future as well in Ireland - there are kids sitting home for even for 2 years since there are no places available for them, some kids don't find a place when they switch from primary to secondary and the list goes on. Even before we had the diagnosis, creche told us they want him out and gave us a very short notice so there are no places in mainstream for September either. When we discussed with them again about his diagnosis and the supports he is entitled to, they said they are not willing to try. Basically, they want him out.

    It's overwhelming as it is to deal with the diagnosis and understand that from now on, you have to fight for your son to get what he needs (and it's like this everywhere, I know), but to understand that creche is a business and they want him out, although for his development and well being he has to stay in routine and with other kids... We are both working, as you know raising kids is costly, but even more so when you have one with special needs, we need the job... That was the last straw basically.

    Could you please elaborate on your two statements (if you feel comfortable doing so, or if you wish to contact me privately):

    "Do I get the level of service from my LA that my son needs and deserves?  No.  Do we access a lot of support and services that I'm extremely grateful for and wouldn't get elsewhere in the world?  Very much yes."

    ?

    Thank you