If your child has Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), they have legal rights under the Children and Families Act 2014. Your local authority must carry out an Education, Health and Care (EHC) needs assessment if your child may have SEND requiring an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). If an EHCP is issued, the local authority is legally required to provide the support set out in the EHCP.
The SEND Code of Practice provides statutory guidance for implementing these duties across education, health, and social care sectors.
Parents or schools can request an assessment, and the local authority must respond within a set timeframe. Unfortunately, responses are often inconsistent and delayed. This can leave families frustrated and children’s needs unmet.
If a local authority refuses to assess or issue an EHCP, or if the plan is inadequate, parents can appeal to the First-tier Tribunal (SEND).
Navigating the SEND process can be overwhelming. Many parents feel lost in the system, unsure of how to advocate for their child effectively. That’s where we come in.
At Children in the Middle, we specialise in advising families through the SEND journey. Our expert barrister Rachel Bennett provides legal advice and guidance to help you secure the right provision for your child. Whether you’re just starting the process or facing a tribunal, we’re here to help.
Don’t face the SEND system alone. Contact Children in the Middle today for professional support. Call us on 0117 214 1797 or email Office@CiTMChambers.co.uk to speak with us.
📧 Email: office@citmchambers.co.uk
📞 Phone: 0117 214 1797
🌐 Website: childreninthemiddle.co.uk