A plain-English guide to SEND support in the UK

Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) support is the extra help given to children and young people whose learning, behaviour, communication, or physical and sensory needs require more than what is ordinarily available in a mainstream setting. In England, that help is organised through a graduated approach: most needs are met in school through SEN Support, while the most complex and enduring needs may lead to an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).

An EHCP is a legally binding document that sets out a child's needs, the provision required to meet them, and the school or setting that must deliver it. Securing one can feel daunting: requests are made to the local authority, evidence is gathered from professionals, and families often need to show why the current support is not enough. We help parents prepare requests, review draft plans, and challenge decisions through mediation or the SEND Tribunal when a local authority refuses to assess or issues an inadequate plan.

Beyond the EHCP, families may be entitled to Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and we guide parents through the paperwork so that forms describe a child's needs accurately and in the language decision-makers expect. For schools, we offer SEND reviews, SENDCo mentoring, OFSTED readiness, attendance strategy and staff training — helping leaders build inclusive provision that holds up to inspection and, more importantly, changes outcomes for children.

Whether you are a parent trying to understand your rights or a school leader striving for excellence, you do not have to navigate the SEND system alone. The guidance below is a starting point; for tailored support, book a discovery call and we will walk through your situation step by step.