We play a leading role in providing specialist support pre-birth
and beyond for anyone living with spina bifida, hydrocephalus
and associated conditions. We also advise and support parents,
families, carers and professional health, and social care staff.
We work on a national level to provide these services through the following specialist service teams:
Through our regional structure, these teams are accessible in your area and once contacted we will do everything possible to ensure that you receive all the information and support you need.
We employ a team of Support and Development Workers in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Support and Development workers are on hand to help you make informed choices.
Shine’s professional Support and Development Workers are here to offer their support, confidential information and advice on:
…and much, much more.
Through our Support and Development Workers you will have access to Shine’s additional services on Education, Health and Benefits.
Keeping healthy means individuals and families can spend more time enjoying life. Shine’s Health Team has more than 30 years’ experience advising on the best options for keeping healthy.
They also understand the worries, concerns, frustrations and possible problems you might face and what you are dealing with.
Advising at NHS clinics, arranging training events for Shine members, providing health information, giving one-to-one advice to individuals, parents, pregnant women, relatives, carers and fellow professionals, or giving 1-1 consultations at Shine’s Health Hub – are all part of a day’s work for the Health Team.
Our early intervention teams in England, Wales and Northern Ireland offer a programme of specialist pro-active support to 0 to 12 year old’s and their parent/carers called Shine's Little Stars, to ensure that all children with spina bifida/hydrocephalus are given the best start in life and families affected by the conditions are supported to provide the best care for their children.
Our teams coordinate to combine the expertise of our Support and Development Workers, specialist health, education and welfare teams with dedicated early intervention staff to deliver more focussed, concentrated support which includes:
Shine’s Education Advisers know all about the challenges of getting a good education – from getting your child into the right school, ensuring good support at school to managing changes such as moving from primary to secondary and going to college or university.
Working with parents, children and teachers, the education advisers ensure that the best support is available for children with spina bifida and hydrocephalus. For example, ensuring good access and support for children whose mobility is affected by spina bifida, or that the effects hydrocephalus can have on memory, concentration, organisation and behaviour are recognised so that children can achieve their potential.
You can also find support online by visiting our education section.
Shine’s new Disability Benefits Advisory Service aims to help more members access key disability benefits.
The new service is open to all members and will offer specialist advice and one-to-one support.
Whether you are a new parent looking after children with complex needs, a young adult at college, work or setting up a home, or someone coping with later in life challenges, the Disability Benefits Advisory Service is here to support you.
