Special Educational Needs

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 10 February 2021

Wednesday, 10 February 2021

Questions (419)

Louise O'Reilly

Question:

419. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Education if a dedicated national helpline can be set up to answer queries from parents of children with special educational needs as pupils begin the return to school. [6656/21]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills

My Department is very conscious of the particular strain that school closures place on children with special educational needs and their families.

The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has created a dedicated phone line for parents to get advice and support from Special Education Needs Organisers (SENOs), which has been operational since the 11th of January.

The SENO will provide support and advice to parents and where relevant provide specific resources e.g. behaviour strategies, National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) well-being resources.

Parents can book an appointment with the SENO assigned to their child’s school. The phone number is 01 603 3456.