The changes, set to commence on November 1, 2025, will involve two new specialist providers, Better Days and Allen Speech and Language.
The decision to revamp the delivery of these services is based on feedback from families and schools about their needs.
Better Days will serve the north and south of the borough, while Allen Speech and Language will take charge in central Croydon.
The council has assured that services will continue under the existing agreement until the start date, with no disruption in provision.
These changes are part of the Croydon SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) Local Area Strategy 2023-2026, which aims to provide timely and appropriate support to children, driven by input from parents, children, and young people.
The council is actively communicating these changes to schools and families.
Additional information is available on the council’s website.
Children who have Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs) and currently receive support from independent therapists will not be affected by the new delivery model.
In an effort to address the national shortage of speech and language therapists, the council is collaborating with its providers to reduce delays in service.
Parents or carers who have concerns about their child’s speech and language development, but do not have an EHCP, are encouraged to speak to their local GP, their school, and to seek advice and guidance through a Croydon Family Hub.
Jason Perry, executive mayor of Croydon, said: “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.”
