Croydon works with families and schools to reshape speech and language support

Croydon Council is refreshing how it delivers its speech and language therapy services for children and young people, based on what families and schools have said they need.

From 1 November 2025, two new specialist providers will be delivering services across the borough. These are Better Days, who will provide therapy in the north and south of the borough, whilst Allen Speech and Language will serve residents in central Croydon. The services will run under the same agreement as before until then without any gaps.

These changes support the Croydon SEND Local Area Strategy 2023-2026 which focuses on getting the right support to children at the right time - and is driven by listening to parents, children and young people.

The Council is working with schools and families to communicate the changes and more details can be found on the Council website.

Children with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), who receive support from independent therapists, will not be affected by the changes.

Whilst there is a national shortage of speech and language therapists - not just in Croydon - the Council is working with its providers to reduce delays.

If parents or carers have concerns about their child's speech and language development, and they don't have an EHCP - they can speak to their local GP, their school and seek advice and guidance through a Croydon Family Hub.

"It is vital that all children and young people have access to the support they need to be able to thrive and fulfil their potential.

"We have been listening to families and schools about how they want to access SEND support and these changes reflect what they have told us works best.

"We welcome the two new providers, who will be in place in time for the new school half-term and will make sure children get the support they need."

Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon