Children's Disability Team (CDT)

For children up to 17 with severe or complex disabilities

Children’s Disability Team (CDT) 

The Children’s Disability Team (CDT) is a specialist social work service within North Tyneside Council. We support disabled children and young people (0-18) whose disabilities have a significant and long-term impact on their daily lives, and where families need additional help beyond universal or early help services. 

Who We Support 

We work with children and young people who have significant or complex needs, where these needs affect everyday life at home, school, or in the community. 

How to Request Support 

A referral can be made by a professional such as a teacher or doctor.  Families can also contact us directly. 

 Children’s Front Door Service: 📞 0345 2000 109 

The Front Door Service will talk with you and explain whether the Children’s Disability Team (CDT) can complete an assessment of your child and family’s needs. 

What Happens Next 

If your referral is accepted: 

 A social worker from the Children’s Disability Team will complete a Single Assessment. 

  • This assessment helps us understand your child’s needs and your family’s circumstances. 

The assessment will look at: 

The additional care and support your child needs because of their disability 

  • What support can be provided by family or community networks, and what cannot
  • What support is already available to your family 

As part of the assessment, the social worker will: 

Visit you and your child at home 

  • Speak with people who are important to your child
  • Gather your views and your child’s views where possible 

You will receive a copy of the assessment and have the opportunity to discuss it. 

Support We Can Provide 

If a social worker is allocated, they will work with you to develop a care plan. This plan explains: 

  • Your child’s needs
  • What support is in place to meet those needs 

Care plans are reviewed regularly. A social worker will visit you and your child at least every six months. 

Care and Short Breaks 

All children benefit from time to socialise, develop independence, and try new activities. For some disabled children, this requires additional or specialist support. 

Depending on assessed need, typical care services may include: 

  • Day care during school holidays, after school, or at weekends
  • Overnight or weekend short breaks with carers or in residential setting
  • Support to access community activities
  • Support workers in your own home 

Support may be arranged through registered providers, or through direct payments so families can arrange their own care.  The type and level of support depend on your child’s and family’s individual needs. 

North Tyneside Short Break Statement explains the kinds of short breaks available to families in North Tyneside. 

Advice and Support 

We work closely with schools, health services, and other agencies. We will provide advice where we can or help you access the most appropriate service. 

Support for Parents, Carers, and Siblings 

As part of the assessment process: 

Safeguarding 

Our social workers are trained in safeguarding. If a child is at risk of significant harm, we work with families and partner agencies to help keep children safe. 

Full-Time Care 

Our priority is to help children remain living with their families wherever possible. If a child or young person cannot live at home, we will arrange care through Children’s Social Care. 

Transition to Adult Services 

We support young people as they prepare for adulthood and work closely with adult services.  

Other Support Options 

Not all families will need support from the Children’s Disability Team. 

Some families may prefer: