Firsthand Lothian
Firsthand Lothian can provide support to families who have one or more children under 16 years with additional support needs, allowing parents and carers to have some regular respite. A matched volunteer offers up to three hours of one-to-one support, usually at the weekend, engaging children in fun activities, going to new places, building confidence and helping them to achieve their goals.
The service is currently delivered in the local community, not in the family home. This is not a long-term service and is more suited to children who are attending mainstream education. For more information contact
0131 523 1322 and leave a message.
Enquire about additional support for learning
Visit Enquire's additional support for learning: A guide for parents and carers webpage for information and support on understanding additional support for learning, getting the right support, school attendance and exclusion and working with the school. Alternatively, contact the Helpline between 9.30am and 4.30pm on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Complete an online enquiry on the Enquire website, visit the Enquire contact page or contact
03451 232 303
NHS Lothian children and young people’s physiotherapy service helpline
This is an advice service which answers any queries parents and carers may have about their child or young person’s development. If you have any questions or concerns regarding a child’s motor skills or development. Contact between 9am and 11am every Thursday.
For more information visit the NHS Lothian physiotherapy webpage.
0131 312 2347
Occupational therapy and advice
Occupational therapy can help babies, infants, children, and young people learn, have fun, socialise and play so they can develop, thrive and reach their full potential.
NHS Lothian has lots of information and advice from occupational therapists including
- tips sheets on meal times
- fine motor skills
- dressing and toileting
Parents and Carers or professionals working with a family can request support from the NHS Lothian Children and Young People’s Occupational Service by completing their request for assistance form. If you require further information, are looking for some general advice, or if you would like to discuss a request for assistance contact
0131 312 1070
NHS Forth Valley Occupational Therapy team also have tip sheets organised by age group, including sensory activities for children and young people who have sensory needs.
Child development concerns NHS Lothian web pages
Visit the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People website for information and support for parents and carers who have any concerns about their child's development.
ERIC – the children’s bladder and bowel charity
ERIC is a national charity dedicated to improving children’s bowel and bladder health. With support for parents and professionals on bedwetting, toilet training, and toilet anxiety. Family webinars are available on a range of topics relating to incontinence.
For more information visit the ERIC website.
Access the free helpline for specialist information and advice between 10am and 2pm from Monday to Thursday on
0808 8010 343
Edinburgh Disability and Neurodiversity (EDAN) Hub
The EDAN hub supports families with children and young people with disabilities or who are neurodivergent in Edinburgh. Each of the partners within the hub offer a range of services tailored for families providing the right support when and where they need it. From universal support such as parent information sessions, social work advice and stay and play sessions to more targeted support including family advice and outreach, advocacy and information, wellbeing groups for children and young people and more. No diagnosis is required and can be accessed by self referral.
For more information visit the EDAN Hub webpages on the yard’s website or contact by using the EDAN Hub contact form.