Core Portage

Families will usually receive regular visits by their Portage Home Visitor. Parents and carers are recognised to know their child best and Portage builds on this knowledge. The Portage Home Visitor will work with families in the home to plan fun activities so that the child learns new skills in small steps.

Portage Home Visitors can liaise with early years settings and schools to ensure a smooth transition for the child where appropriate.

Core Portage support

The following criteria should be met:

• The child is aged 0-4yrs and has at least one term before entering school.
• The child’s development is delayed by approximately one third of its age in at least two different skill areas, such as social communication and language.
• The child has a recognised syndrome or condition that is likely to lead to a delay in their learning, such as their understanding, self-help or physical skills.
• The child’s parent/primary carer must agree to be available to meet with the Portage home visitor on a regular basis.
• A parental signature has been obtained, giving consent to the referral.
• If a child attends an early years setting for 15 hours or more, this may affect the type of support Portage is able to offer. This will be discussed between parents and an Inclusion Team Leader during the initial visit.