To ask the Minister of Education to detail any support that is available through early years and preschool special educational needs services for children requiring specialist sensory resources or equipment, to enable safe participation and development.

The Education Authority provides a range of support for children with special educational needs in early years and pre-school settings. This can include advice and support to settings in identifying and assessing a child’s needs, supporting their participation in learning and putting appropriate educational supports and reasonable adjustments in place.

Where a child requires specialist sensory equipment or resources to address a health, medical, therapeutic or clinical need, assessment and provision are matters for the Department of Health and Health and Social Care Trusts. Education settings may work with health professional to support the use of such equipment within the educational environment.

The Education Authority and my department do not hold information on the full range of specialist sensory equipment or resources available through health services. The Member may wish to address her Question to the Health Minister for a response.