Fighting for Every Child: When the System Fails, We Push Back
Today has been a rollercoaster. You know those days where you start out hopeful, thinking maybe—just maybe—things will move forward, only to find yourself drowning in bureaucracy and red tape? That’s been my day.
I’m fighting for a child who should be in full-time education but isn’t—because the system that’s supposed to protect them is failing them.
The Excuses Keep Coming
The EHC Hub update came through today, and instead of solutions, all I got was a masterclass in buck-passing.
- They questioned my authority as an advocate—despite already having written consent.
- They claimed the school has to request Section 19 support—even though it’s legally the Local Authority’s responsibility.
- They dismissed Fair Access Protocol (FAP) because they technically have a school place—even though they’re only in school for two hours a day.
- They tried to stall the EHC Needs Assessment (EHCNA)—despite clear laws stating that support must be in place while the assessment is ongoing.
At what point do these agencies realise that delays have real-life consequences?
It’s Not Just Paperwork—It’s a Child’s Future
This isn’t just a case file. This is a real child being denied their right to an education because of a system that values process over people.
Imagine being told:
💭 "Your child technically has a school placement, so they don’t qualify for urgent support."
💭 "Yes, we know they’re only in school for two hours a day, but the school has to request help first."
💭 "We’re looking into it, but it’s still early in the process."
This isn’t acceptable. This isn’t okay. And it’s certainly not lawful.
The Law is Clear—So Why Aren’t They Acting?
The law backs this child.
🛑 The Education Act 1996 says the Local Authority must provide a suitable education if a child isn’t receiving one.
🛑 The SEND Code of Practice (2015) says support must be provided as soon as a need is identified—not after months of delays.
🛑 Fair Access Protocol exists to place children at risk of missing education— but they’re pretending that 2 hours a day somehow counts as "education."
I laid all of this out in a formal email demanding action within 48 hours. I attached every relevant legal document, highlighting the exact sections that prove they’re failing in their duty.
Why This Fight Matters
Because this child is just one of many.
How many other parents are out there right now, being told the same nonsense? How many kids are sitting at home, slipping through the cracks, because their families don’t have the knowledge, confidence, or energy to keep fighting?
That’s why I do this.
That’s why I will not stop.
💬 Have you faced something similar? Drop me a message I’d love to hear from others who’ve had to push back against the system. Let’s support each other. Because if we don’t hold them accountable, who will?
11/03/2025
#SEND #Advocacy #EducationMatters #FightForChange
Navigating the SEND Process with Confidence
Navigating the SEND Maze: A Parent’s Journey to Advocacy
I know first-hand how overwhelming the SEND process can feel, like stepping into a complex maze with no clear way out. Trust me, I’ve been in your shoes, spending countless hours researching, second-guessing myself, and feeling caught up in worries, unsure of where to begin. If this sounds familiar, I want you to know one thing: you’re not alone.
As a mum of three, two of whom have SEND, and someone with ADHD myself, I’ve faced these challenges head-on. And while it’s not always easy, I’ve learned that with persistence and the right support, you can secure the help your child truly deserves.
My journey started with understanding my children’s needs. It sounds simple, but in reality, it was anything but. Like you, I knew my children better than anyone else, and trusting my instincts was essential even when others had differing opinions. I began by observing their behaviours and challenges, keeping notes on everything, from their struggles with learning and communication to emotional regulation. I won’t lie, my “disorganised note-taking” system was chaotic at first, but over time, I became better at organising my evidence. This habit became invaluable when advocating for their needs.
Working with their teachers and the SENCO was my next step. I was fortunate to have proactive professionals involved, but I know that not everyone has the same experience. If your child’s school isn’t taking the initiative, don’t wait. You can apply for an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) yourself directly through your local council. Schools might tell you to wait or claim there’s not enough evidence, but trust your instincts. If you believe your child needs an EHCP, take action.
Yes, the system can be slow and frustrating, and yes, you will likely face barriers. But as your child’s advocate, you have the power to fight for their rights. You can challenge decisions, request independent assessments, and push for the reasonable adjustments your child deserves.
The most important thing to remember is this: you know your child better than anyone. Don’t let anyone make you feel otherwise. A mother’s instinct is powerful, and with determination, you can break through the barriers and create a brighter future for your child.
You’re not alone on this journey, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Together, we can make a difference.
Getting Your SEND Child to School: Transport Help for Parents
Navigating school transport for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) can feel like a maze. Whether your child has been suspended, excluded, or placed in an out-of-area school, it's important to know your rights and what support is available to you.
Who’s Responsible for Transport? Understanding Your Rights
Navigating the complexities of your child's education can be overwhelming, especially when transport becomes a hurdle. Under Section 19 of the Education Act 1996, your local council is mandated to ensure that your child receives a suitable full-time education, even if attending their usual school isn’t possible. This includes arranging transport when necessary.
What to Do If Your Child is Suspended or Out-of-Area
If your child has been suspended for more than five days or placed in a school outside your area due to their special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), you may find yourself asking, “Do I have to transport them myself?” The good news is: not necessarily.
According to Staffordshire County Council’s policy, if the new placement is beyond a reasonable walking distance—three miles for children over eight and two miles for those younger—then you should be entitled to free transport.
Facing Challenges? Here Are the Steps You Should Take
If you’re struggling to get your child to school, consider these actionable steps:
1. Contact the Local Authority: Request written confirmation of your council’s transport responsibilities. This is essential to understand what support you can expect.
2. Check Your Child’s EHCP: If your child has an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP), verify that transport arrangements are included in Section F of the plan.
3. Challenge Denials: If your request for transport is denied, you have the right to appeal. Don’t hesitate to escalate the issue to the Local Government Ombudsman if needed.
4. Get Support: Advocacy services, such as Empower Inclusion Advocacy, can guide you in understanding your rights and help you fight for the support your child needs.
Know Your Rights
Too Far to Walk? If the school is beyond statutory walking distance, the council is obliged to assist.
Special Needs Consideration: If your child has mobility or sensory needs, the transport arrangements should take these into account.
Fair Access Rules: It’s crucial that schools and councils ensure transport arrangements are fair and reasonable.
Final Thoughts
Don’t let transport worries add to your stress. If your child has been suspended or needs to attend a school far from home, know that there is support available. The key lies in understanding your rights and advocating for your child when things don’t seem right.
Are you in need of assistance? Empower Inclusion Advocacy is here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today and let’s tackle these challenges together!
📌 How to Advocate for Your Child in School Meetings
Advocating for your child in school meetings can feel overwhelming, emotional, and sometimes frustrating. Whether it's an EHCP review, a SENCO meeting, or a discussion about extra support, you want to make sure your child’s needs are met—but knowing how to do that effectively isn’t always easy.
The key to successful advocacy is preparation, confidence, and knowing your rights. This guide will walk you through how to prepare for meetings, what to say, and what to do if things don’t go as planned.
Advocating for Your Child: A Guide to Effective School Meetings
Navigating school meetings can be daunting, especially when it comes to advocating for your child's needs. I think preparation is key to making sure that you walk into the discussion with the confidence and information necessary to represent your child effectively. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for a successful meeting, discuss your concerns, handle disagreements, and follow up after the meeting.
Preparing for the Meeting
1. Gather Important Documents
Before the meeting, could you collect all relevant documents? This may include:
Your child’s Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), if applicable
School reports
Individual Learning Plans (ILPs)
Medical assessments
Any notes or emails from previous discussions
Having these documents on hand makes it easier to reference key points and provides a strong foundation for your arguments.
2. Write Down Your Main Concerns
Take time to outline your primary concerns regarding your child’s education and well-being. Consider questions like:
What challenges is your child facing in school?
Are there specific subjects or situations causing difficulty?
Is the current support effective?
I think creating a list of issues beforehand will help you stay focused and articulate during the meeting.
3. Know Your Rights
Educate yourself about your rights and your child’s entitlements. If your child has an EHCP, the school is legally obligated to provide the support outlined in the plan. For those without an EHCP, schools are required to make reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010. Knowing these rights empowers you to advocate effectively.
Speaking Up: What to Say and Ask
1. Stay Calm and Confident
When the meeting begins, please be sure to maintain a calm and professional demeanour. Please be sure to. Your role as a parent is crucial, and it’s important to express your views assertively.
2. Inquire About Current Support
Start by asking what support is currently in place for your child. Schools should have documented evidence of the interventions used and their frequency and effectiveness. If you find the support lacking, please ask about alternative strategies that can be implemented.
3. Request Written Responses
If the school claims they cannot provide additional support, request that they confirm this in writing, along with their reasoning. Schools often possess more flexibility than they initially indicate.
4. Review the EHCP
If you're talking about an EHCP, please pay close attention to Section F, which details the specific support your child is meant to receive. If it lacks clarity regarding how much support is provided, who delivers it, or how often, push for more precise information.
5. Address Behavioural Concerns
If behaviour issues arise, ask whether your child has an Individual Behaviour Plan (IBP). If one isn’t in place, request its development and ensure it includes tailored strategies for your child’s needs.
6. Manage Difficult Conversations
Should the discussion become contentious, take a moment to regroup. Remember, you are your child’s strongest advocate and have every right to be heard.
Handling Disagreements with the School
Not all meetings will go as smoothly as planned. If the school seems resistant to providing necessary support, it’s crucial to hold them accountable.
1. Request Written Confirmation
If you encounter pushback, ask the school for everything in writing. For example, if they say, “We can’t do that,” reply with, “Can you confirm that in writing, along with why?” This makes it harder for them to ignore your concerns.
2. Remind Them of Legal Obligations
If the school fails to deliver on agreed-upon EHCP provisions, remind them that these are legally binding. Ask for details on how they plan to ensure compliance and be ready to escalate the issue if needed.
3. Follow Up
You can always request a follow-up meeting to review changes or ensure progress is being made. If necessary, escalate your concerns to the local authority, SENDIASS, or an advocate.
After the Meeting: Next Steps
Once the meeting concludes, don’t leave things to chance.
1. Send a Summary
Follow up with an email summarising the discussion, including any agreed-upon actions and timelines for implementation. This creates a written record for future reference.
2. Seek Meeting Notes
If responses are lacking or changes aren’t implemented, request a copy of the school’s meeting notes to maintain accountability. Should the necessary support still be absent, consider filing a formal complaint.
Final Thoughts
Advocating for your child during school meetings may be challenging, but it is crucial to their success. The better prepared, informed, and confident you are, the more likely your worries will be taken seriously.
Remember, you know your child best. You have the right to ask questions, challenge decisions, and advocate for the support your child needs. If you need additional help, please contact organisations like Empower Advocacy for help.
Together, let’s ensure our children receive the education and support they deserve!
10/03/2025
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