With the cost of living rising, many families are feeling the pressure — especially those supporting children with additional needs.
But one of the biggest issues we see at AskEllie is this:
👉 Families are overpaying — not because they have to, but because they don’t know what they’re entitled to.
Why This Happens
The system is not straightforward.
Support, discounts, and entitlements are:
- Spread across different services
- Poorly communicated
- Often never explained to parents
So many families end up:
❌ Paying full price for services
❌ Missing out on financial support
❌ Managing unnecessary financial stress
3 Things Every SEND Family Should Check
Here are some of the most commonly missed areas:
1. Council Tax Discounts
If you have a disabled child, you may be eligible for:
👉 A council tax band reduction
👉 Other local support depending on your situation
This can reduce your bill significantly — but many families are never told.
2. Social Tariffs (Broadband & Mobile)
If you receive certain benefits, you may qualify for social tariffs.
These offer:
- Reduced broadband costs
- Lower mobile bills
In many cases:
👉 Up to 50% cheaper than standard deals
This is one of the easiest ways to reduce monthly outgoings.
3. Discounts for Days Out
Half term and holidays can be expensive — but there are schemes that can help:
- Max Card — discounted entry to attractions
- CEA Card — free cinema ticket for a carer
- Carer concessions at many venues
These can make a real difference to family budgets.
The Bigger Picture: Missed Support
Beyond discounts, many families are also missing:
- Benefits they may be entitled to
- Additional financial support
- Help linked to their child’s needs
This is often because:
👉 They’ve never been told
👉 They’re unsure if they qualify
👉 The system feels too complex to navigate
Why This Matters
Families supporting children with additional needs often face:
- Higher daily living costs
- Reduced working flexibility
- Additional care responsibilities
So overpaying — even slightly — adds up quickly.
👉 And in many cases, it’s avoidable.
What You Should Do Now
Take a few minutes to check:
✔ Are you getting all council tax reductions available?
✔ Could you switch to a social tariff?
✔ Are you using available discount schemes?
✔ Are you receiving all the support you’re entitled to?
Even one of these changes could save you hundreds of pounds a year.
How AskEllie Can Help
At AskEllie, we speak to parents every day who feel unsure about:
- What they can claim
- What support they should be getting
- Whether they’re missing anything
Our Support Services
We offer clear, practical 1-to-1 support to help you:
- Understand your entitlements
- Identify missed support
- Reduce unnecessary costs
👉 Our services are available through our Stan Store
👉 You can also reach out via our contact page
Final Thought
If money is tight — or things just don’t feel right financially —
it’s always worth checking.
Because in many cases:
👉 You’re not overspending…
👉 You’re just missing support.
Need Help Checking What You’re Entitled To?
If you want clarity and don’t want to risk missing anything important:
👉 Come by and see us at AskEllie
We’re here to help you make sure you’re getting the support you deserve.
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