Below is a guide to different diagnoses that might impact children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), along with trusted sources for further information and support.
Neurodevelopmental Conditions
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that can cause ongoing patterns of inattention, impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity, which can impact everyday functioning.
More info: ADHD | Understood.org [understood.org]
Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC)
Also known as ASD (Autistic Spectrum Disorder), Autism may involve difficulties in social communication, interaction, repetitive behaviours, and sensory sensitivities.
Support available from: National Autistic Society [autism.org.uk]
Attachment Disorder
Children with difficulties with attachment may find it hard to form and maintain healthy emotional relationships with those around them. This can be for different reasons but may be due to early childhood experiences such as a traumatic event, inconsistency in care, or abusive or neglectful care.
More info: Attachment and child development | NSPCC Learning [learning.nspcc.org.uk]
Specific Learning Differences
Dyslexia
Affects how individuals process and remember information. Dyslexia often impacts reading and writing, but can also affect memory, organisation, and time management.
Support and resources: British Dyslexia Association [bdadyslexia.org.uk]
Dyscalculia
A specific learning difficulty involving challenges with number sense and basic arithmetic (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division).
More info: Dyscalculia | The Dyscalculia Association [dyscalculia.org.uk]
Dysgraphia
A learning disability that makes writing difficult, affecting spelling, handwriting, and written expression. Individuals may struggle with forming letters or spacing words properly.
More info: National Handwriting Association [nha-handwriting.org.uk]
Dyspraxia
Dyspraxia, also known as developmental co-ordination disorder (DCD), affects a child’s movement and physical co-ordination. This might make it trickier for some children to carry out daily activities.
More info: NHS iinformation on developmental coordination disorder
Developmental Language Disorder
Developmental language disorder (DLD) is a condition which can impact children’s talking and/or understanding of words. They may have lots of ideas, but find it hard to put them into words and understand what others are saying to them.
More info: Speech and Language UK
Sensory Impairments
Hearing Impairment (HI)
This includes all levels of hearing loss and deafness, which may impact speech, communication, and learning.
Support available from: National Deaf Children’s Society [ndcs.org.uk]
Vision Impairment (VI)
Refers to visual difficulties that can’t be corrected with glasses or lenses. This can impact access to learning and daily activities.
Support and tools: RNIB Education and Learning [rnib.org.uk]
Physical and Developmental Needs
Physical Disability (PD)
PD includes a wide range of conditions that can affect mobility, coordination, or stamina, with varying impact from mild to severe.
Understanding disability: Social Model of Disability | Scope UK [scope.org.uk]
Additional Support
If you’re supporting a child or young person with SEND, these organisations and resources can offer valuable guidance, practical tools, and up-to-date information. Whether you’re a parent, carer, or professional, help is available to navigate challenges and build confidence.
Early Years Education
Professionals working with very young children with SEND can access tailored guidance and support.
More info: Early Years Education | Information for professionals [ndcs.org.uk]
Support Strategies and Interventions
Interventions
Structured, time-bound, and ideally evidence-based, interventions aim to support measurable improvements in learning, behaviour, or development.
Explore what works: Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) [educationendowmentfoundation.org.uk]
Useful links
The Department for Education – SEND: Guide for Parent and Carers
The Council for Disabled Children
SEND tips and advice. BBC Parents’ Toolkit
Understanding the SEND Code of Practice
