STEP

STEP are a support service within Trafford Parents Forum. We offer targeted and individualised support for parent carers of children and young people with SEND in Trafford (whether diagnosed or not), where additional 1:1 support is required, which falls outside of the statutory services delivered by SENDIASS.

This support service is invaluable to our parent carers, particularly at a time when they need it most, with a strong and robust team managing the day to day delivery supported by a fantastic group of Volunteers and Experts by Experience.  Our Peer to Peer Coordinators have already provided emotional and practical support to nearly 400 families, with an established team of Volunteers and Experts by Experience who assist them.  

As a parent carer in Trafford, to self-refer or find out more, please complete the form on the link below to arrange an informal chat. We also consider referrals from Trafford services such as Trafford Team Together, Early Help, SENDIASS and other local community organisations such as Trafford Carers Centre, Children and Families Counselling Centre and Homestart.

We can support in the following ways: 

• Emotional support 
• Exploring the world of SEND
• Sharing information and resources around SEND
• Help Navigating the Local Offer 
• Support communicating with services/schools
• Preparing for/support in low-level meetings
• Support with Benefit Application forms e.g. DLA/PIP
•  Preparing for Transitions
• Understanding behaviour 
• Cost of Living Practical support

NOTE: We are unable to support with issues regarding EHCPs and other areas that are part of the SENDIASS statutory duty.

We endeavour to respond to all referrals within 3 working days wherever possible but please note the service is open term-time only (generally in line with Trafford's school holidays) so if a referral is submitted during the school holidays, we will aim to respond within 3 working days of the service reopening after the school break.