The Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorders Service (CNDS) is a specialist second opinion Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) service for children and young people.  We provide diagnostic assessments where there is uncertainty around diagnosis.  In addition we also provide consultation and management advice to local services concerning children and young people who already have an existing ASD diagnosis.

Live Well Learn Well provides one-to-one and small group coaching to young people. Our coaching enables young people to overcome barriers to learning, and helps them to develop the confidence and motivation they need to succeed in school.

We work with young people who struggle with a range of issues, including low self-esteem, anxiety, poor body image, and exam stress.

We also coach adults who work in education, with a focus on stress management and preventing burnout.

The Toby Henderson Trust (TTHT) is an independently funded charity supporting autistic children, their families and carers.  After 15 years at Whitehouse Farm the trust has recently moved to Toby House, Earth Balance, Bedlington, Northumberland.

We are the one and only charity in the North East focused on life changing early intervention with autistic children (aged 2 to 7). Our service users tell us early intervention can transform the life of a child…

Lennox is a seven bed unit providing comprehensive assessment and treatment for young people aged 12-18 with complex mild to moderate learning disability and a requirement of a high level of supervision in a medium secure environment.

Referrals are accepted from specialist mental health teams regionally, nationally and internationally. Informal enquiries are welcomed and advice can be given by telephone prior to referrals.

The Newcastle Community Team for Learning Disabilities is based at Benton House in Newcastle.

The Adult team provides specialist assessment and treatment to people aged 18 years and over with a learning disability and additional health needs, where the person’s needs are complex and require an integrated approach to care and treatment that cannot be met through mainstream services.

Situated within the Alan Shearer Centre, our specialist home offers residential accommodation for adults with profound and multiple disabilities, offering longer term, safe and nurturing care and support. In addition, our disabled residents have full access to the on-site Activity Centre.

If you would like to see our facilities, meet the staff and discuss your individual needs, Sarah will be happy to arrange a visit. You can also speak to Sarah if you would like to enquire about a place or find out details on the referral process and the criteria for admission.

Pathways 4 All is a parent-led charity, providing leisure services for children and young people with disabilities/ additional needs (0-25 years old). Our primary service is a specialist play and activity provision, the Tim Lamb Centre (in the grounds of the Rising Sun County Park, Benton). Our centre is open to families from across the North East region.

This is a free service for those who care for children with additional needs. Browse a wide range of suitable, quality and specialist toys.  You can borrow 4 toys for up to 4 weeks.  

For more details on this service please contact us on 0191-2656158 or email admin@napi.org.uk

The Tree House Early Years Centre provides a range of Educational, Social, Therapeutic and Health activities / services for children aged 0-5 with SEND, and their families.

The centre was officially opened by councillor Lesley Storey in September 2023. The following video showcases the opening of the Centre and highlights some of facilities and activities available for children and their families.

Are you aged 18-25 and looking after someone who needs help and support? 

If you are caring for someone who cannot manage without your support and you're not employed to do this, then you are a young adult carer. Anyone can become a carer at any point in their life. We're here to listen and support you.

Looking for support to get into paid employment? 
Looking for real hands-on work experience and more career opportunities? 
Motivated to get work experience to find a paid job?

NHS England Choices College is a national specialist college. We provide employment support for young adults aged 16-24 with learning disabilities/difficulties and/or Autism. 

Our person-centred approach ensures support is tailored to meet each learner’s needs. Placements are found based on the learners' skills and interests.

The Alan Shearer Short Break Centre offers specialised breaks, from overnight to longer stays, for children and adults with a range of disabilities.

Our dedicated staff are trained in caring for people with profound and multiple disabilities, autism and Asperger's Syndrome.

We offer skilled and experienced support for those with additional health or medical needs and those who require specialist care.

Based in Stockton, Sunderland and Newcastle, the College provides day and residential education for young people between the ages of 16 and 25 years with an autism spectrum condition (ASC). Students come from across the country to access this specialist provision that enables them to achieve their personal ambitions.

The majority of our students have additional and complex needs including learning disabilities, ADHD, mental health conditions, behaviours that challenge and sensory issues.