Additional Learning Needs (ALN) refers to children and young people who have learning difficulties or disabilities that make it harder for them to learn than most children of the same age. This could also mean having a physical disability that can prevent some of the school’s educational facilities from being used.

Other examples of ALN include young people with hearing or visual impairments, or speech or language difficulties. Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Dyslexia and Behaviour, Emotional and Social Difficulties (BESD) can also fall under ALN.

Here’s some things you can find on this page:

• National Services
• Useful Apps
• Blogs and Guides
• Videos

National Services

Gov.UK’s disability rights and education section – Information on rights for those with disabilities.

Careers Wales – Funding for students with learning difficulties and disabilities.

Mencap’s SEN Section – Support for those who have ALN.

Snap Cymru – Information for young people in Wales.

The Mix – Information on Learning Difficulties and Syndromes.

Disability Wales – The national association of disabled peoples organisations in Wales striving to achieve the rights and equality of all disabled people.

Innovate Trust – Providing advice and support for disabled people.

Meic – An advocacy and helpline service to support you with any problems you might be having or advice. Contact Meic daily from 8AM – Midnight on: Freephone (080880 23456), Text (84001) or Instant Message.

Useful Apps

AccesAble – This app gives you detailed information you need to work out if a place is going to be accessible.

Blogs & Guides

Understanding Learning Disabilities – The Mix

SuperSummary – Guide to Overcoming Dyslexia – A resource guide for those with dyslexia, their parents and teachers. Links to organisations that focus on dyslexia and other learning disabilities.

Videos