About SEND funding

All schools and settings are expected to follow a graduated approach to identify and meet the needs of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Many children will make good progress within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum through inclusive practice or through additional support already available within the setting.

Children who may need additional support

A small number of children may need further support to access their early education place. Information about which children may benefit from additional support can be found in the Early Years section of the Graduated Approach Guidance.

If a parent or carer is worried about their child’s progress, they should speak to their child’s school or early years setting. More information is available on the SEND Local Offer.

Early Years SEND Funding

The Early Years SEND Panel reviews applications from early education providers who need additional support to help a child access their funded early education place. 

The multi-agency panel considers applications for Transition grants and SEND support grants. If you need any advice on the funding, contact eysendfunding@trafford.gov.uk.

Once early years SEND funding has been awarded by the panel, funding is monitored as part of the wider agenda. Providers may receive an attendance check email to confirm the child is still attending the setting.

Application deadlines

Applications and all supporting information must be submitted by the published deadline. Incomplete or late applications will be moved to the next panel meeting.

Application deadlines and panel meeting dates
Application deadline Panel meeting date
Tuesday 5 May Wednesday 20 May
Tuesday 2 June Wednesday 17 June
Tuesday 7 July Wednesday 22 July
August No panel
Tuesday 1 September Wednesday 16 September
Tuesday 6 October Wednesday 21 October
Tuesday 3 November Wednesday 18 November
Tuesday 24 November Wednesday 9 December