From One SEN Parent to Another: Information I wish I had known early on

Here's a clear, more accessible guide aimed at SEN parents, covering the key steps and resources you might need on your journey:

Diagnosis
To begin the diagnosis process for your child, you’ll need an appointment with a paediatrician, who can refer you to the appropriate waiting lists. You can get a referral through your GP or other services, such as Speech and Language Therapy. Waiting times can be long—sometimes years. One option to reduce this wait is the “Right to Choose” pathway. Some private providers offer this, allowing you to apply directly to them. They’ll review your child’s needs, and if approved, will provide a letter for your GP to sign. With Right to Choose, the waiting period for assessment is often around three months. Many parents have found this faster than traditional routes, where waiting lists can stretch for years.

DLA (Disability Living Allowance)
Disability Living Allowance is available if your child has a disability that requires additional daily support. It can help cover expenses such as sensory equipment, therapy, or specialised care. DLA is provided at different rates (low, middle, and high), depending on the level of care and support needed. You can apply for DLA for each of your disabled children individually.

Carer’s Allowance
If your child receives the middle or high rate of DLA and you work under a certain number of hours per week, you may be eligible for Carer’s Allowance. You can only claim Carer’s Allowance once, even if caring for multiple children, but another eligible family member may also apply if they meet the criteria.

EHCP (Education, Health, and Care Plan)
An EHCP is a legal document that outlines the educational, health, and social care support your child requires. Schools or nurseries can apply for an EHCP on your behalf, but you can also apply as a parent. To do this, complete the application form and submit evidence of your child’s needs—these can include reports from school, the SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator), NHS or private reports, an Educational Psychologist (EP), Occupational Therapist (OT), or Speech and Language Therapist (SALT).

Once submitted, the Local Authority (LA) will review and decide whether to assess your child. If they refuse, you can appeal at a tribunal. If they agree, they’ll carry out an assessment and determine if your child needs an EHCP. If approved, the EHCP will specify your child’s needs and the provision required, which may include a 1:1 teaching assistant. The LA must legally provide whatever is written in the EHCP. If they refuse at any stage, you can appeal at a tribunal. Once the draft EHCP is shared with you, you’ll have the opportunity to give feedback before the final plan is issued.

Applying for a SEN School with an EHCP
An EHCP allows you to apply for SEN-specific schools, which can be invaluable if mainstream schooling, even with support, isn’t suitable for your child. However, spots in SEN schools are often limited, so the process may be challenging. If you feel a SEN school environment is best for your child, it’s worth the effort to advocate for this placement.

Explore Alternative Education Options
If a mainstream school isn’t a fit for your child, there are several other paths to consider:

• Flexi-Schooling / Part-Time Schooling: Combining part-time school attendance with home education can offer a balanced approach that supports both academic and personal needs.

• Alternative Provision: Specialised programs outside traditional schools can provide structure and support tailored to your child’s needs.

• EOTAS (Education Otherwise Then at School): EOTAS may be an option if your child’s needs can’t be met in school. This involves education arranged by the LA outside the school setting.

• Home Education: For full flexibility, you can choose to home educate by deregistering from school. Home education means you are fully responsible for organising and funding your child’s learning, but many parents find it a rewarding choice. There are plenty of home education groups on Facebook where you can learn about the process and find out what’s available in your area.

Access Card
An Access Card can be a valuable tool for outings and events. To apply, submit documentation of your child’s needs, which will then be indicated on the card, such as “requires 1:1 carer,” “can’t queue,” or “needs quick access to toilets.” Many venues honor Access Cards with free entry for a carer when a ticket is purchased for the disabled individual. In most cases, a DLA or Carer’s Allowance letter can also serve as proof for free entry.

Blue Badge
If your child has an invisible disability that affects their safety near roads—such as a lack of understanding of road dangers—you may be able to apply for a Blue Badge. This badge allows you to park in designated disabled spaces closer to your destination, making outings easier and safer.

To apply, you’ll need a professional involved in your child’s care, like a SENCO or Occupational Therapist (OT), to complete the invisible disability form as part of the application. Keep in mind that the Blue Badge can only be used when your child is in the vehicle.

Seek Out Local Charities
Local charities can provide or subsidise activities, equipment, and even assessments. Many run free or low-cost sessions that can be beneficial for SEN children. National charities like Family Fund help families cover expenses related to SEN needs, including private assessments, sensory equipment, and technology like tablets. It’s worth researching to find both national and local organisations that can support your family.

Join Local SEN Support Groups on Facebook
Connecting with local SEN groups on Facebook can be incredibly valuable. These groups often have information on clubs, activities, and events tailored for SEN children, including both free sessions organised by the Local Authority (LA) and privately run, paid activities. Many parents find these groups to be a lifesaver, offering a space where children can be themselves and parents are supported by others who truly understand.

By staying connected with other SEN parents and knowing what resources are out there, you’ll find support, tips, and options to help your child thrive. I'll continue adding more insights to this guide to make navigating the SEN journey easier for parents.