Independent advice

Parents can take their own appeal to the Tribunal but it is advisable to seek advice from helplines such as the National Autistic Society’s Advocacy for Education service on 0845 070 4002 or the Independent Panel for Special Education Advice on 0845 602 9579. Free representation is sometimes available.

Legal aid may be available for low income families who need help preparing the paperwork for an appeal but is not available for representation. Check the likely cost beforehand if you decide to employ a solicitor. Community Legal Services or the Education Law Association can put you in touch with solicitors and others who represent parents at Tribunal.

The Independent Panel for Special Education Advice (IPSEA) has a free downloadable pack for parents whose local authorities have turned down their request for a statutory assessment:

IPSEA refusal to assess pack