Shropshire Information Advice and Support Service (IASS) provides information, advice and support to parents and carers of children aged 0 to 25, and young people aged 16 to 25 who have, or may have, special educational needs or disabilities (SEND). The free, confidential, and impartial information, advice and support includes matters relating to education, health and social care, welfare benefits, finance, independent living, employment, debt and money management advice are all available.

How they can help you:

• They will listen to your concerns, provide relevant information and help you to explore your options.
• Support you to prepare for upcoming meetings including annual reviews.

• Explain reports written by professionals.
• Provide information about SEN and disability law to enable you to make informed decisions regarding your child’s education.
• Support you to develop positive relationships and improve communication with schools and the local authority.
• Signpost you to other relevant organisations or sources of information, including welfare benefits, finance, independent living, employment and debt and money management advice
• If eligible for one, take up and manage Personal Budgets
• Help to mediate with school or the Local Authority and help to put your views forward to the right people.

They can also provide:

• Unlimited access to their online training packages available on their website
• Factsheets and useful information available on their website
• Termly newsletters
• Regular and up to date information via their Facebook Page
• Support for young people via their Young IASS Shropshire Facebook Page

Shropshire IASS can help you if:

- You live in Shropshire

- You are a child or young person up to 25 years old and have a Special Educational Need or Disability (SEND) or related health or social care needs.

Or

- You are a parent/carer for a child or young person with SEND or related health and social care needs.