Children and Young People's Neurodevelopment Support Fund 2026-2027: supporting guidance

High-level descriptor of neurodevelopmental support

A high-level system descriptor of neurodevelopmental support is being developed collaboratively with partners. It is intended to support a shared understanding of the range of supports available across the system that can meet neurodevelopmental needs.

Within this, support can be understood across four broad categories; reasonable adjustments, self‑support, targeted support and intensive support. Children, young people and families may require support from more than one category at any point, and the support required may change over time as needs emerge and evolve.

Local authorities may wish to consider how services supported by this funding align with these categories of support. The high-level descriptor intends to provide a shared understanding of how different forms of support fit together and support decisions about how funding is used to strengthen the overall system of neurodevelopmental support in a local area. It may also help local authorities to map existing provision, identify gaps, and clarify roles across partners.