The Special Needs Information Partnership (SNIP) is the register for Children with Disabilities in Waltham Forest. The register is used to plan services for children with disabilities. Under the Children Act 1989, Social Services must keep a register of all children with disabilities in the Borough.
Which children are included on the register?
The register includes children and young people between birth and 19 years with:
- Physical disabilities
- Sight or hearing loss
- Learning disabilities
- Communication difficulties
- Chronic ill health and who require additional help from their parent(s) / carer(s), or other to take part in day-to-day activities.
Does my child have to be registered?
No, the register is completely voluntary and can only work for all of us, if as many people as possible agree to put their children on the register.
What information is required?
It includes name of the child, gender, date of birth, address, first language, ethnic origin, child’s special needs and diagnosis, child’s playgroup / school name and post code, parents / carers name and their address, GP name and his/her postcode, name of paediatrician (if any). It also includes a survey form about the services offered by statutory organisations and voluntary organisations.
What are the benefits to my child?
You will receive the information pack upon registering your child and whenever the pack is updated, if your child is still registered, you will receive the updated copy of information pack. You will also -
- receive a quarterly SNIP newsletter
- receive a birthday card which will be sent to your child on his / her birthday
Who will be able to see information from the register (Data Protection)?
- Your child’s personal details will never be disclosed to anyone unless that person already knows of your child; eg social workers, health authorities
- The SNIP database, on which the details are stored, is password protected and only the information officer / co-ordinator has access to it
- Great care will be taken to ensure that all information is held securely. Information that identifies your child is handled with particular care and there are strict confidentiality procedures
What are my rights?
- You have full access to the information held on your child, so you can ensure it is accurate and up to date. Your child has the same rights
- You have a say as to what information goes on the SNIP database
- You can amend all details which are incorrect
- You have the right to remove your child details from the register at any time
How can I register my child on SNIP?
If you wish to enter your child onto the SNIP database you need to complete the SNIP registration form. Please click here to download a copy of the form [288KB word file] or you can obtain it by contacting the information co-ordinator.
Contact us
Special Needs Information Partnership (SNIP)
Specialist Children's Service
The Wood Street Health Centre
6 Linford Road
Walthamstow E17 3LA
Tel: 020 8430 7944
