7 Red News

Dear Community,

This is just a quick post to update you about a recent review of Physiotherapy and Occupational Services in South Tyneside.

Schools across South Tyneside have received a letter from South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS foundation Trust informing schools that, following a review of services, as from 1st November 2023 the Physiotherapy and Occupational therapy teams based at Palmer Community Hospital, will no-longer be accepting referrals for the Developmental Coordination Disorder pathway directly from schools.

An intervention pack has been developed, which is to be sent to schools to support their pupils in the identification of difficulties with suggestions of appropriate support, guidance and interventions.

If, following school intervention further and ongoing concerns continue, they are advising that these are discussed with parents whom can seek a referral to the therapy teams via their GP/ other health care professional e.g. school nurse.

On receipt of a referral, Children and Young people will be allocated a direct intervention programme with the appropriate therapy team. If following this intervention DCD is indicated, an onward referral into the DCD pathway will then be processed.

Direct referrals into the DCD pathway will now only be accepted either via Paediatrician, Physiotherapist or Occupational Therapist.

Children and young people who have been accepted onto the DCD pathway prior to 1.11.23 will continue along the previous process.

If you have any concerns about this change in process, please contact your GP.

Many thanks

Jo Donkin

SENDCo