If you’re concerned that your child might not be meeting developmental milestones, or if you notice issues with how they play, act, move, learn, or speak, it’s important to seek advice promptly. Use the NHS Birth-to-five development timeline as a reference, and discuss any concerns with your GP, healthcare professional, or health visitor. Early intervention is key to ensuring your child receives the support they need.
If your child attends an early years setting, such as a nursery or pre-school, you can also talk to the staff or a health visitor. These professionals can help determine if your child’s development is within the expected range or if further evaluation is needed. If there is cause for concern, they may refer your child to the Community Paediatrics Service, which offers medical care for children with developmental difficulties, disabilities, or chronic health issues.
For emotional and mental health concerns, the Bromley Community Wellbeing Service provides support for children and young people dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, behavioural problems, and more. It serves as a single point of referral for emotional and mental health difficulties.
If you suspect your child may have special educational needs or disabilities (SEND), talk to their teacher, preschool keyworker, or the SEND lead at their school or college. Schools and early years settings will assess your child and provide the necessary support. Not all children with learning difficulties have SEND, and some may only need short-term assistance. If a more comprehensive assessment is needed, you can request an Education, Health, and Care Needs Assessment.
If you are dissatisfied with the care received, you have the right to file a complaint through the NHS complaints procedure.
b-Hive
A website for parent/carers to support them with their child’s communication development, physical skills and independence.
Created by local health services and Bromley Council to pull together the range of therapies that support the communication development, physical skills and independence of children, teenagers and young adults in Bromley.
The guide incorporates a collective range of therapies, such as: emotional wellbeing and mental health; occupational therapy; physiotherapy; speech and language therapy; and special educational needs (SEN) advisory service.
The b-Hive is shaped around six core areas of child development which support the child
Need more help?
The Information, Advice and Support Service provides confidential and impartial advice and information to support parents or carers and children and young people who have, or may have, special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) aged 0 to 25.
Information, advice and support service
Telephone line open from 9.30am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm
Address: