What does a SEND or ALN diagnosis mean for me and my child?

If your child needs lots of help with certain activities, they may have special educational needs or a disability (SEND). This is sometimes also known as additional learning needs (ALN).

A diagnosis for SEND can help your child get extra support. You can also get some support for your child without a diagnosis.

It’s useful to understand what a SEND diagnosis will do for your family, and what it might not do.

Types of support offered by a SEND diagnosis

The support will depend on the nature and level of your child’s needs. An assessment will show whether your child meets the criteria for a diagnosis.

Support as a result of a diagnosis may include:

Making sure your whole family is supported

While a SEND diagnosis will offer some support, it may not meet all your child’s needs. It’s a good idea to think about where your family can get the support they need outside of a diagnosis.

Remember that the diagnosis process could take a few months. It’s also important to know that your child may not meet the criteria. It may help to:

  • Understand what support your child can get with or without a diagnosis. Read our article on SEN support in schools. Or the government website has some information about people to speak to.
  • Seek emotional support. If the possibility of diagnosis has come as a shock, it may take you time to adjust to the situation.
  • Look for local parenting groups for specific needs and disabilities.
  • Check what venues have in place to cater for your child’s needs. Cinemas sometimes hold screenings for autistic children, for example.
  • Consider your own day-to-day needs – like time with friends or a partner. Try to organise your family life to accommodate this.
happy childhood icon

This advice was written by our experienced Parent Talk coaches. Parent Talk is a free online service for parents and carers, provided by the charity Action for Children. For more advice, message our parenting coaches with our online chat.

More on special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)

Talk to us

Talk about the issues that are worrying you with a parenting coach. Use our free and confidential online chat.