Free sessions to help families navigate SEND system

Law students at a university are offering free sessions to help families understand the rights of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Northumbria University's student law office is launching SEND Decoded to give families information on what to expect when seeking help and what the law requires.

They will hold two sessions, one at its Newcastle campus on 18 November and one online the following day. All materials are prepared and approved by specialist SEND lawyers.

Clinical supervising lawyer at the student law office Kerry Drabble said the process could be complex, with many families navigating it alone.

She said: "There is rising demand for support, increasing complexity of need, and limited resources placing pressure on local authorities and families alike.

"That is why we have created SEND Decoded, to help more local families understand their rights and clarify the steps involved in obtaining the right support for their children."

Children with high or complex SEND needs can be assessed by their council, which draws up an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), setting out what support they receive.

Families who have had a request for assessment refused or are unhappy with their EHCP can appeal through an independent tribunal.

Although there are timelines authorities must adhere to, many councils struggle to keep up with demand.

Northumbria University said nationally 29,000 appeals were registered with the SEND tribunal last year. This was the highest number on record, with the picture locally reflecting the national trend.

The student law's office work follows on from a project last year where students worked with families on stages of the SEND process, including how to deal with EHCP refusals and EHCP reviews.

"The journey of getting provisions for a child with complex needs is very lonely," one parent said.

"In my first appointment I sat and cried - a mixture of relief to have support and frustration at how hard the journey had been."

Student Ellie Wilkinson, who took part in the scheme, said it gave her an "amazing opportunity and experience".

"On a personal level, my empathy skills grew. When hearing the clients' challenges, you realise although you are there to give advice, you are also there for support."

More information is are available on the university's website.

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