We are required to keep a register of information for children and young people with disabilities. This is what we call the “Children’s Network”.
Children can be registered from birth until their 19th birthday and registration is entirely voluntary. We currently have over 950 children on the register and we would like to increase the number of families who are aware of Children’s Network and encourage them to register their child’s details with us.
We have a register to identify the number of children and young people who are affected with a disability across County Durham. This enables us to plan for future services more effectively as we can identify which services are needed and which should be developed and implemented in the future.
The information from the register can also ensure that parents and carers receive relevant information, as well as giving them the chance to feed back their comments on current services which are available for disabled children. We also encourage parents and carers to be involved in the consultation process for the development of future services.
All information is covered by the Data Protection Act 1998 and personal information remains confidential.
How will being on the register benefit my child?
When your child’s name is on the children with disabilities register, they automatically become a member of the Children’s Network. This means you and your child/children will receive:
- A quarterly newsletter Network News for you and your children to share. It contains information on services, summer short breaks activity information and events as well as a pull-out with activities for your children to enjoy.
CNetwork Network News 8.pdf (9 pages, 2619kb)
- A free information guide called the Childrens Network Directory.
- Entry into the Children’s Network exclusive membership scheme offering discounts to organisations from across County Durham and the North East. Your child will automatically receive the exclusive discount card upon registration as well as a booklet outlining discounts available and how the card can be used. CNetwork Membership Scheme.pdf (20 pages, 2763kb)
- An invitation for you and your family to our free Children’s Network fun day events.
- A text alert service notifying you of any new relevant information.
- An invitation to the information-sharing exhibitions that the Children’s Network hosts, so you can identify services and information which are available to you.
How do I register my child and become a member of the Children’s Network?
Registration is quick and easy and your child will receive a small gift. All you have to do is use the contact at the bottom of the page to request a Children's Network registration form, fill it out and return it in the pre paid envelope supplied. We hope to be able to offer online registrations in the future.
Once registration starts, at each birthday your child will receive a birthday card from the Children’s Network with a review sheet of their information for you to check and update – you are entitled to remove your child’s name from the register at any time.
Useful links
Summer 2010 Short Breaks Activities Programme - View the free Summer Short Breaks Programme
Children's Network Membership Card Scheme - Children’s Network are working in partnership with organisations across County Durham to deliver that little bit extra for family fun-filled days out, offering exclusive discounts with our free Children’s Network discount card.
school and parent support. - There is a range of high quality inclusive educational provision for children and young people with special educational needs in Durham. More information is available about school and parent support
Parent Partnership - County Durham Parent Partnership offers support to parents of children with special education needs (SEN).
Contact A Family is a national charity which brings together families of children with special needs. Its parent advisors can give information ranging from practical areas such as benefits to information about rare genetic conditions.
The Every Child Matters in County Durham website - aims to communicate how services for children, young people and their families will be integrated and coordinated with health, social services, education and local authorities.
NHS Direct Online - provides confidential health advice and information around the clock.
Direct payments for children - giving you choice and control over the care of your children.
Welfare rights - Durham County Council has a welfare rights team which is independent and has no connection with agencies administering benefit payments. The main part of its work is to maximize benefit and to represent those who have had their claims rejected or their benefit reduced or removed.
Park House is a short break centre offering overnight stays to young disabled people aged between 9 and 17 years. Additional information is available on the Park House website. Alternatively please contact Social Care Direct.
Carers' Support Centres can provide a range of information and advice to carers of children and young people who have disabilities and special needs. They may also have support groups for parents and carers:
If you would like any further information or would like to share any relevant information, please contact us.