We work with children and young people aged up to 19 years old who have difficulties ranging from speech and language problems and difficulty with concentration and attention, to disabilities and health conditions that slow physical development. Our patients have long-term challenges and move in and out of our service at different points in their lives as their needs change. Our aim is to empower parents, relatives and carers to support their child’s health needs and become independent of our service.
We are organised into four area teams who together cover the whole of Somerset. We provide a service to those children and families who are registered with a Somerset GP.
We recognise the importance of working with those who spend the most time with our patients. We work closely with our patients and their family, teachers, education support services, psychologists, health visitors and GPs.
Our team
Our team is made up children’s speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, therapy support practitioners and administrators.
Speech and language therapy
Our speech and language therapists assess children and young people for problems with speech, understanding conversation or forming sentences, social interaction or eating and drinking difficulties. We develop care plans and work closely with occupational therapists and physiotherapists when children have difficulties beyond communication or feeding.
Occupational therapy
Our occupational therapists work with children and young people who have difficulties in daily activities at home, in their community or at school. Our occupational therapists assess children’s skills in play, engaging at school and self-care. We provide advice and therapy to support our patients develop their independence through fun and positive activities.
Physiotherapy
Our physiotherapists aim to improve the quality of life of our patients by promoting independence and encouraging physical fitness and well-being. We work in hospitals, clinics, nurseries, schools, family homes and any other locations depending on the needs of our patients.
How to help your child
All children and young people develop differently. There are some common problems that can be improved with some practical advice. You can ring our telephone advice line to speak to one of our therapists. If your child is already known to our integrated therapy service please contact your local team. You can find details about your local team in letters or reports you have received from us.
Advice line
0303 033 3002
This number is open between 09:00 – 12:00 on (except bank holidays):
- Mondays
- Tuesdays
- Wednesdays
- Thursdays.
Other professionals such as health visitors, teachers or staff at your children’s pre-school are also able to ring us for advice so may ask your permission to do this.