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Children With Disability Team
Support from Herefordshire Council’s Children with Disabilities (CWD) Team
At Barrs Court School, we know that caring for a child with additional needs brings both joys and challenges. We want every family to feel supported, not only by us, but also by wider services in the community.
One of the key sources of specialist help in our area is the Herefordshire Council Children with Disabilities (CWD) Team.This dedicated team works with children and young people who have long-term, significant disabilities, offering support to both them and their families.
Who the CWD Team supports
The CWD Team generally works with children and young people up to their 18th birthday, when many services transition to adult support.
Planning for adulthood begins before 18, to make sure families are prepared for the next stage.
What the CWD Team offers
Assessments & Eligibility, for children with substantial and long-lasting disabilities or life-limiting conditions, the team can assess what extra help might be available.
Social Work Support, families may be linked with a social worker who can help with care planning, coordinate services, and provide ongoing advice.
Short Breaks & Respite, opportunities for children to enjoy new experiences, while parents and carers get valuable time to rest or focus on other needs.
Education Links, the team works closely with education services, including specialist teachers (such as the Physical and Sensory Support Service), to help children with hearing, visual, or physical needs access learning fully.
Advice & Guidance, even if a child does not meet the criteria for specialist services, the team can offer advice and signpost families to other local organisations.
Transitions & Future Planning, extra support at key points of change, such as moving schools or preparing for adulthood.
How to contact the team
Parents and carers can:
Ask a professional (such as a teacher, GP, or health visitor) to make a referral,
Contact Barrs Count School, on (01432) 265 035 or email admin@accourdiatrust.co.uk
Refer themselves directly through the council’s Children’s Help and Advice Team (CHAT), which is the single point of contact.
Referral process:
Initial Contact
Call the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) / CHAT on 01432 260800 (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm).
Or email cypduty@herefordshire.gov.uk.
Information Gathering
Parents/carers explain their child’s needs and difficulties.
The CHAT team checks eligibility for support from the CWD service.
Assessment
If eligible, the case is passed to the CWD Social Work Team.
A social worker may complete a Child and Family Assessment to explore what services or short breaks may help.
Direct Access (for some services)
Some short breaks or community activities can be accessed without a full social care assessment via the Short Breaks Team