Navigating the SEND crisis and your family.

The journey so many families are on is one that is filled with negative experiences, far to often I speak to clients and there story is another filled with consent reminders how far behind we are when it comes to Neurodiversity. The last decade I have seen little positive change in a broken system, I do know that families are at breaking point. I have heard unthinkable situations that children and young people have experienced. The SEND crisis is very real, not only is there no accountability from the government, the professionals I have encountered are quite frankly as much use as a chocolate teapot.

On the 2nd of March 2023 the Department of Education published Its plan to improve the SEND and alternative provision. The big Question is when, how and what is going to change. To be completely honest nothing will change the law remains the same, the Polices and accountably aren't taken seriously by those that adhere to it, or worst still completely Ghost parents.

As a parent I have sat across the table in meeting with the LA and been lied to, the lies in actual fact were all myths.

• You won't get a EHCP, your child isn't behind in learning enough.

• You need a diagnosis before you can apply.

• We can support you Childs needs, you don't need to apply for a EHCP.

• The LA aren't given them out anymore

• You needs 3 rounds of evidence to apply

  
  

The list goes on and on, when I speak with parents I hear the same stories up and down the country, so please don't listen to the lies, as I can tell you first hand the success rate I have with supporting families is 99%

A break down of the figures for 23/24

289 EHCP issued 23/24 period

38 EHCP issues with SEN provisons

2 EHCP issued with AP moving to SEN provisons

2 cases issued with a EHCP but awaiting provisons (Kent)

6 EHCP with Independent schools and fees paid by LA (Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire)

3 cases of EHCNA refused and agreed at mediation

2 outstanding cases from 2024

Cases supported in voluntary capacity gave me confidence to learn and build confidence whilst learning on a Mentoring course

I have the pleasure in supporting families to find there inner voice, you have permission to speak your mind, this is your child or young person, this makes you the expert....

My role as an advocate is to support families in navigating through the complexity and confusing system. I often hear from parents that they are pushed back from schools and told they won't a EHCPA. This is often due to schools not having the staff or experience in supporting families to gain an EHCP, I offer a one off free consultation to dicuss your child or young person and if they meet the criteria for a EHCNA.

I also support families in empowering parents to understand how to approach schools in opening up conversations in understanding the needs and how the school is supporting them. Many families don't know how there child or young person is being supported and by having direct communication can be helpful. My knowledge will help you to find your own voice to become your child or young persons best advocate.

I hope this helps, please do read my other blogs and my newly launched podcast on Spotify.