Disabled children register

We want to make sure we know how many disabled children or children with special needs that affect their everyday life live in the Borough.

This is something all councils have to do. It will help us improve services now and in the future.

By being on the register we can also keep you informed of what services are available how you can get involved, if you want to.

If your child has a physical or mental impairment that has a ‘substantial’ and ‘long-term’ negative effect on their ability to do normal daily activities you can place their name on the Register.

Being part of the Disabled Children Register is not a way of being assessed for services. It will not provide or take away any services for you or your child.

Registering will give you and your family the chance to comment on the services you do or don’t get.

It is a way for you to tell us what you think could make a difference, and pass on your views to the people who plan services and make decisions. It is also a way for us to pass on information to you.

• Do I have to register my child?
• Is it for my child?
• What will families get out of the Disabled Children Register?
• Where and how is the Disabled Children Register information held?
• Who would see this information?
• Disabled Children Register Leaflet [pdf document]
• Related information
  
• How do I register?

Do I have to register my child?

No, registering is voluntary and details of your child cannot be added without your permission.

There is a form to fill in but you can choose which questions you answer. Although there are some questions which must be completed to ensure we have essential information about your child and your contact details.

By registering your child you are helping us develop services for disabled children and young people which are responsive to their needs.

Complete the Disabled Children Register form

Is it for my child?

Yes, if your child:

• Has a special need from either a disability or a health condition
• Has  a long-term illness
• Needs help with personal care
• Needs help with communicating their needs and feelings
• Gets Disability Living Allowance
• Is under 18 years of age; and
• Lives in the Borough of Darlington.

Then please join our register.

What will families get out of The Disabled Children Register?

Being part of the Disabled Children Register is not a way of being assessed for services and will not provide or take away any services for you or your child.

Registering will give you and your family the chance to comment on the services you do or don’t get.  It is a way for you to tell us what you think could make a difference, and pass on your views to service planners and decision makers.  It is a way for us to pass on information to you.

We will:

• Let you know how we have used your information
• Send you information
• Keep you updated on what Children Services can offer you
• Update you about new developments in services for disabled children

Joining the register is your opportunity to be involved in influencing how services are planned and delivered.

Where and how is the Disabled Children Register information held?

The information you provide is held confidentially and securely with Darlington Borough Council.  We will send you a copy of your information if you want. 

Every year, we will ask you about any changes and update your records.

Who would see this information?

Reports we produce are used for planning and developing services.

They will never identify any child or family as they only contain the facts and figures. 

We ask you on the application form if you are happy for us to share your contact information with colleagues within Darlington Borough Council and other relevant organisations such as health, Parent Carer Forum and Darlington Association on Disability (DAD) to help with their planning and development work for disabled children in Darlington.   

Disabled Children Register Leaflet [pdf document]

Related information and useful links

The Local Offer [external link] provides information for parents/carers about services for children with special educational needs or disabled. 

Darlington Association on Disability (DAD) [external link] was established in 1986 as a voluntary and charitable organisation led by disabled people.

It exists to help people with disabilities gain independence and choice, and supports disabled people and carers through the provision of services, support and information and by engage with issues locally and nationally.

Darlington Parent Carer Forum (CHYPS) [external link] works in partnership with education, social care and health to influence and develop quality services for children and young people with SEN and disabilities in Darlington.

How do I register?

You can complete the registration form online and send it to us automatically by email or print off the form, complete it and send it to:

Disabled Children Register
Lifestages Team
Central House
Gladstone Street
Darlington
DL3 6JX