SEND/Additional needs


Browse our resources on various health and developmental conditions, including FASD, ASD, and ADHD, to help you understand and support children with different needs and strengths.

These free resources showcase some of the content available to CATCH members, To access our full library of resources, tools, and support, become a CATCH member through your agency or buy an individual membership.

Autism spectrum conditions in care experienced children

Webinar: Autism spectrum conditions in care experienced children


Dr Matt Woolgar (Clinical Psychologist) addresses autism spectrum conditions as one type of neurodiversity in children. Matt explores the barriers for getting questions about diagnosis answered adequately and looks at the challenges around assessments for children who have experienced early life trauma. This webinar will be helpful to anyone parenting or supporting a child with autism.

Sensory processing

Webinar: Sensory processing


Dr Naomi Fox provides an introduction to sensory processing and looks at practical strategies to support processing difficulties.

Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance PDA

Webinar clip: Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)


This is a clip from the webinar presented by Mary van der Merwe, Neurodivergent CYP Practitioner (Parenting Special Children). Mary discusses Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), covering topics such as demand avoidance in children with trauma histories, dysregulation, distress and sensory processing. She also provides strategies to support children with PDA.

“Mary was so informative and so patient and honest. So many practical suggestions and she answered so many questions. Fabulous – thank you.” – Hub member

An introduction to developmental delay

Webinar: An introduction to developmental delay


In this webinar Dr Matt Woolgar (Clinical Psychologist) explores developmental delay and related neurodevelopmental conditions. He explains the terminology used to describe the conditions, consider the cause and impacts of these conditions and the barriers that can arise for families trying to access support.

“Excellent. I appreciated the information about the importance of accurate and detailed assessment. Thanks for your expertise!” – Hub member

FASD - Neurodevelopmental presentation complications and support strategies

Webinar: FASD – Neurodevelopmental presentation, complications, and support strategies


Dr Alan Price, a lecturer in Psychology at the University of Salford, covers a general introduction to FASD, discussing the complicated presentations, adversities and mental health conditions, and provides advice on best practice and support strategies.

“I liked the fact that it was presented in a positive manner, all too often we hear about the negatives. This has made feel less concerned about FASD in general.” – Hub member

Supporting children and young people with PANS and PANDAS

Webinar: Supporting children and young people with PANS and PANDAS


This webinar is designed to give a concise and meaningful overview of the medical conditions PANS and PANDAS. It will look at how some of the symptoms can present, how they can affect learning and behavior, what schools and families can do to help, as well as signposting to the resources available through PANS PANDAS UK charity website.

Pathological Demand Avoidance PDA in the classroom

Webinar clip: Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) in the classroom


This is a clip from a webinar presented by Mary van der Merwe, Neurodivergent CYP Practitioner (Parenting Special Children). She joined us to look at pathological demand avoidance (PDA) and how it can present in school settings. Mary provides some classroom strategies for supporting pupils with PDA, discusses the importance of autonomy and explores the benefits of taking a collaborative approach between school, parents and pupil.

“Great insight from an expert speaker. Clearly presented and gave all questions a considered response.” – Hub member

Understanding children's executive functioning skills in schools

Webinar: Understanding children’s executive functioning skills in schools


In this introduction to executive functioning, PACT’s Education Lead looks at how these skills are applied in the classroom and essential to access education effectively. She explores why children with early adverse experiences may struggle more with these skills. You’ll also discover common signs of executive functioning challenges and explore practical ways to help children develop these skills at school and at home.

Prematurity - An introduction to premature birth

Webinar clip: Prematurity – An introduction to premature birth


This is a clip from the webinar, in which Dr Eleanor McCartney explores what prematurity really means and take a closer look at the neonatal unit experience, where specialised care begins. She will discuss the short-term health challenges that premature infants often face and also examines the potential long-term health implications. This webinar is aimed at prospective adopters, adoptive parents, foster carers and anyone with an interest in the impact of prematurity.

Very useful, great information and explanation.” – Hub member