SEN ADVISORY PACKAGE

To ensure that local authorities are making the right decisions in respect of their appeals, we offer an advisory service which gives SEN Officers access to legal advice to help answer general SEN queries as and when they require it.

The SEN system is not only complex and stressful for parents and carers to navigate, it can also be a challenge for staff working in local authorities too, who often lack access to legal advice and support.

Without proactive legal support, local authorities face increasing complaints, appeals to the SEN Tribunal and high rates of sickness absence amongst its workforce.

Our SEN Advisory Package has been created to meet these challenges.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE SEN ADVISORY PACKAGE?

Our SEN Advisory Package provides access to legal advice and support and it comprises of the following:

 

WHAT TYPE OF WORK IS COVERED IN THE SEN ADVISORY PACKAGE?

The support hours can be used as and when required by the Local Authority.  Typically, work undertaken has included the following:

  • Providing advice via telephone/email on general SEN queries (e.g. casework issues on individual cases, admissions disputes, transport queries, complaints).
  • Drafting/amending/proofing letters as they involve a legal dispute or complex area of law.
  • Drafting particular documents as requested – for example, a review of an SEN policy.
  • Providing written advice on cases as requested – for example, when EOTAS provision should be agreed and what this would involve.
  • Reviewing complaints and providing advice and guidance on the appropriate response.
  • Dealing with pre-action judicial review letters and advising on the steps required to address the issues raised.

We will formally review the use of the support hours on a monthly basis and provide the commissioner of the package with a breakdown of how the hours of support are used. We may also separately raise any issues of concern or suggestions for improving practice. We can also suggest appropriate training opportunities for staff.

How Long DoES THE PACKAGE Last?

  • The package lasts for one year.
  • Any unused support hours can be carried over into the next year.
  • If you use all of your support hours you can either renew the package or pay for additional support at a discounted hourly rate of £150 p/h.

 RESTRICTIONS ON THE USE OF THE PACKAGE

  • It does not include attendance at Court or SEN Tribunal hearings.
  • It cannot be used to deliver training sessions.
  • It can only be used by staff who are authorised.

What Are The Benefits oF THE Package?

  • Immediate access to specialist SEN legal support.
  • Cost effective.
  • Support at your disposal to ensure that your SEN practices and procedures are informed by legal advice.

COST OF THE PACKAGE

  • £15,000.00 (+ VAT) per year
  • Payable in two instalments.
  • Discounted rates apply if the package is used before its expiry.

CONTACT US

  • If you would like to discuss how the SEN Advisory Package may benefit your local authority please contact us directly.
  • For more information about our SEN  services for local authorities please download our leaflet by clicking here.