Author: admin

Many parents of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) find themselves frustrated when professionals say, “We don’t see it in school.” This often happens because of masking — a coping strategy children use to hide their struggles in order to fit in, avoid judgement, or stay safe. Masking is particularly common in children with autism, ADHD, PDA, and anxiety.

---

What is Masking?

Masking is when a child suppresses their natural behaviours or hides their difficulties to appear like their peers. For example:

• Holding in meltdowns or sensory distress until they get home
• Forcing eye contact even when it feels uncomfortable
• Copying the speech, mannerisms, or social cues of others
• Staying quiet in class, even when struggling, to avoid standing out

While this might make things appear fine at school, the effort required can be exhausting. Many children ‘unmask’ at home, leading to meltdowns, shutdowns, or extreme exhaustion. Parents often see the impact far more than teachers do.

---

Why Schools and LAs Must Take Masking Seriously

Just because difficulties aren’t visible in the classroom doesn’t mean they aren’t real. In fact, masking itself is evidence of need. The SEND Code of Practice (2015) makes it clear that needs must be identified and supported, even if they present differently across environments.

Ignoring masking risks:

• Children not receiving the support they need
• Parents being dismissed or blamed
• Emotional harm to the child from constant suppression

---

How to Communicate About Masking With Schools

1. Keep a Home Diary
   Record what happens before and after school: meltdowns, exhaustion, refusals, or physical symptoms (like headaches or stomach aches). This gives evidence of the ‘after-effects’ of masking.
2. Share Patterns With Staff
   Gently explain that your child may appear settled in school but shows distress at home. Linking specific behaviours (e.g., “He comes home exhausted on days with PE”) helps staff understand the triggers.
3. Use the Language of Law and Guidance
   Remind the school that support must be based on needs, not just what staff observe. You can refer to the SEND Code of Practice to reinforce this.
4. Request Assessments
   Ask for observations over time, sensory assessments, or input from an Educational Psychologist. Masking can be identified by looking at the bigger picture, not just surface behaviour.

---

Communicating With the Local Authority (LA)

If you are applying for an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) or dealing with the LA:

• Highlight Masking in Your Request
  Clearly state that your child masks in school and explain the consequences at home. Attach diary evidence where possible.
• Counter ‘We Don’t See It’
  Emphasise that the Equality Act 2010 protects disabled children from discrimination, including when their difficulties are hidden.
• Insist on Holistic Evidence
  The LA must gather evidence from both school and parents. Your experience at home is equally valid and legally relevant.

---

Key Takeaway

Masking doesn’t mean there’s no problem — it means your child is working incredibly hard to hide it. This is not sustainable and can cause long-term harm if dismissed. Schools and LAs must recognise masking as a genuine need and respond with understanding, support, and tailored strategies.

---

👉 For template letters, EHCP guidance, and further advice, visit AskEllie.co.uk.

I’ve drafted your blog post on masking, understanding it, and how to communicate with schools and LAs. It covers what masking is, why it matters, how to evidence it at home, and how to frame it legally when dealing with schools or the LA.

Would you like me to make it a bit more parent voice/story-driven (sharing a relatable example of what happens when a child masks) so it connects even more emotionally with readers?

For many parents, the new school year starts with the shock of being told their child with SEND will be placed on a reduced timetable. Sometimes it’s one hour a day, sometimes mornings only — and often it’s presented as if you have no choice.

But here’s the truth: reduced timetables are not a long-term solution, and in many cases they are unlawful.

---

What is a Reduced Timetable?

A reduced timetable is when a child attends school for less than the standard school day. Schools often use it when they say a child “can’t cope” or when they don’t have the staff or resources to meet needs.

While short-term, agreed arrangements can sometimes help a child transition back into school, reduced timetables should never be:

• Imposed without your agreement.
• Left open-ended with no review.
• Used because a school lacks resources.

---

The Law Around Reduced Timetables

Your child has a legal right to full-time education.

• Under the Children and Families Act 2014, schools must use their best endeavours to support pupils with SEND (Section 66).
• Under Section 19 of the Education Act 1996, Local Authorities must provide suitable education for children who cannot attend school.

That means a reduced timetable can only be lawful if:
✅ It is short-term and agreed with parents.
✅ There is a clear written plan and timescale for returning to full-time education.
✅ It is regularly reviewed and genuinely in the child’s best interests.

---

Why Reduced Timetables Are a Red Flag

Far too often, reduced timetables are used to hide the fact that schools can’t meet needs. Instead of fixing provision, the child is simply sent home. This leaves children missing out on education and families picking up the pieces.

Long-term reduced timetables:

• Damage trust between families and schools.
• Prevent children from accessing their right to education.
• Can push parents into crisis when work and home life become impossible to balance.

---

What Parents Can Do

If your child has been placed on a reduced timetable:

1. Ask for it in writing — including the reasons, plan, and review date.
2. Challenge unlawful use — remind the school and LA of their duties under Section 66 and Section 19.
3. Request an urgent EHCP review if the current provision cannot meet your child’s needs.
4. Escalate if ignored — use the LA complaints process or the Local Government Ombudsman if necessary.

---

Final Thought

Reduced timetables might be dressed up as “support,” but for many SEND families they are a sign that the system isn’t working. Schools and LAs have legal duties to deliver full-time, suitable education. Parents don’t have to accept half-measures.

💡 Need help challenging a reduced timetable? We’ve created free template letters to help you take the first step: AskEllie.co.uk

When it comes to EHCPs, there’s one thing most parents don’t realise: missing a key deadline could cost your child vital support.

---

The 20-Week Rule

When you apply for an Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment (EHCNA), the Local Authority has strict deadlines to follow. From the day they agree to assess, they must issue the final EHCP within 20 weeks.

This timeline is written into law under the Children and Families Act 2014 and the SEND Regulations 2014.

But here’s the catch — if parents don’t keep track of the dates, it’s easy for Local Authorities to delay and leave children waiting months longer than they should.

---

Why the Deadline Matters

Every week lost is a week without the right support in place. For children struggling with:

• School refusal / EBSA
• Mental health needs
• Learning difficulties
• Behaviour linked to unmet needs

…delays mean they continue to miss education, fall further behind, and often reach crisis point.

---

Common Tactics of Delay

Parents tell us that Local Authorities often:

• Take weeks to “gather advice” from professionals.
• Push reviews back.
• Issue vague drafts that drag out the process.
• Rely on families not knowing the 20-week deadline exists.

---

What Parents Can Do

💡 Don’t leave it to them — keep your own record.

1. Write down the date the LA agreed to assess.
2. Count forward 20 weeks — that’s your deadline for a final EHCP.
3. If the deadline passes, you can formally complain or even appeal to tribunal.
4. Don’t accept “we’re busy” as an excuse — the law is clear.

---

Final Thought

The 20-week deadline isn’t a guideline — it’s the law. Missing it can cost your child months of education and support.

Parents who know this rule are in a much stronger position to hold their Local Authority to account.

👉 Need help keeping track or challenging missed deadlines? We’ve put together free template letters at AskEllie.co.uk to get you started.

When parents ask for support, many schools respond with the same line:
“We can’t do anything until your child has an EHCP.”

But here’s the truth: that’s not what the law says.

---

What is Section 66?

Section 66 of the Children and Families Act 2014 places a clear duty on schools. It says that schools, colleges, and other educational institutions must:

👉 Use their “best endeavours” to secure the special educational provision required by a child’s or young person’s needs.

This duty applies whether or not a child has an EHCP.

---

What “Best Endeavours” Really Means

“Best endeavours” doesn’t mean “if we feel like it” or “if funding allows.” It means schools must do everything that can reasonably be done to identify and support your child’s needs.

That could include:

• Adjusting lessons or teaching styles.
• Providing small group or 1:1 support.
• Allowing sensory breaks.
• Using technology to support learning.
• Involving outside specialists where needed.

---

Why This Matters

Too many families are told to “wait for an EHCP” while their child struggles. But Section 66 makes it clear: schools cannot sit back and do nothing.

Even without an EHCP, schools must act. They cannot use lack of funding, resources, or “policy” as an excuse to deny support.

---

What Parents Can Do

💡 If your child is struggling and the school is refusing support:

1. Put your request in writing and quote Section 66 of the Children and Families Act 2014.
2. Ask for evidence of what “best endeavours” the school has put in place so far.
3. Request a review meeting to discuss what further support can be offered.
4. If nothing changes, escalate to the Local Authority — and if needed, use the complaints process.

---

Final Thought

Section 66 is one of the most powerful parts of SEND law — but most parents are never told it exists. Knowing your rights means you can challenge schools that say “we can’t help” and make sure your child gets the support they deserve.

👉 Need help putting this into action? Download free template letters at AskEllie.co.uk.

If your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), you might be told by schools or the Local Authority that support depends on funding, resources, or staff availability. But here’s the truth: EHCPs are legally binding.

And that comes from Section 42 of the Children and Families Act 2014.

---

What Does Section 42 Say?

Section 42 makes it clear:

👉 Local Authorities must secure the special educational provision set out in Section F of an EHCP.

That means:

• If the EHCP specifies speech and language therapy, it must be delivered.
• If it specifies 1:1 support for 20 hours a week, those hours must be provided.
• If it names a particular intervention or piece of equipment, the LA must fund and deliver it.

There’s no get-out clause. Words like “must secure” mean this is a legal duty, not a suggestion.

---

Why It Matters

Too often, EHCPs are written vaguely — with phrases like “access to support” or “regular opportunities”. The problem is, vague wording can’t be enforced.

Section 42 only works for families if Section F is specific, detailed, and quantified. That’s why it’s so important to push for clear language when your EHCP is being drafted or reviewed.

---

What Parents Can Do

💡 To make Section 42 work for your child:

1. Check Section F — is it specific? Does it say who, what, how often, how long?
2. Challenge vague language — terms like “regular,” “access to,” or “as needed” are too weak.
3. Keep records — if provision in Section F isn’t happening, keep notes and emails.
4. Escalate — if the LA fails to deliver, you can use the complaints process, Ombudsman, or tribunal.

---

Final Thought

Section 42 is one of the strongest protections in SEND law. It’s the reason an EHCP is more than just a piece of paper — it’s a legal guarantee of support.

👉 Want to check if your child’s EHCP is enforceable? We’ve created free resources and templates to help: AskEllie.co.uk.

When parents first look at an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), most focus on the sections about their child’s needs and outcomes. But the real power of an EHCP lies in a section that’s often overlooked — and it can completely change your child’s support.

That section is Section F.

---

What is Section F?

Section F is where the special educational provision your child needs is written down. It’s the place where words are turned into action.

And here’s why it matters: under Section 42 of the Children and Families Act 2014, the Local Authority has a legal duty to deliver everything written in Section F.

If it’s in Section F, it must happen. If it’s not in Section F, it’s not enforceable.

---

Why Section F is So Powerful

Section F is the difference between:

• “Access to speech therapy” → vague, unenforceable.
• “1 hour of direct speech and language therapy every week, delivered by a qualified therapist” → specific, enforceable in law.

The first example can be ignored without consequences. The second example is legally binding.

That’s why Section F is the hidden part of the EHCP that changes everything.

---

Common Mistakes

Too many EHCPs use vague wording like:

• “Regular support”
• “Access to interventions”
• “Opportunities to develop skills”

These phrases sound helpful but are too weak. They don’t guarantee anything.

---

What Parents Can Do

💡 To make sure Section F protects your child:

1. Check every line — is it clear, specific, and measurable?
2. Remove vague words like “regular,” “opportunities,” or “as required.”
3. Add detail — who delivers the support, how often, for how long.
4. Challenge drafts — you can push back if the language is too weak.
5. Keep copies — if Section F is strong, you can enforce it through complaints, the Ombudsman, or tribunal.

---

Final Thought

Section F might look like just another part of the EHCP, but it’s the section that makes the difference between promises and action. If you get it right, your child’s support is secured in law. If you don’t, your child risks being left without the help they need.

👉 Want help checking if Section F in your EHCP is strong enough? Download free guides and templates at AskEllie.co.uk.

Roblox is one of the most popular online platforms in the world, with over 40 million children under the age of 13 playing every day. It’s a creative space where kids can build games, explore virtual worlds, and play with friends.

But in recent weeks, Roblox has been under fire in the news and across social media. Concerns about online predators, inappropriate content, and data privacy have left many parents asking: is Roblox safe for my child?

At AskEllie, we want to cut through the fear and misinformation to give you the facts — and practical steps you can take to protect your child.

---

🚨 What’s Happening With Roblox?

• Whistleblower banned: Roblox banned a man who exposed multiple predators on the platform, sparking outrage. Parents feel that instead of tackling the predators themselves, Roblox punished the person raising the alarm.
• Petition signed by 100,000 people: In response, a huge number of parents and campaigners demanded Roblox improve child safety.
• Inappropriate games: Even with maximum parental controls switched on, children as young as 8 have been able to access disturbing content, including games with sexualised or violent themes.
• Biometric verification coming: Roblox is now trialling face scans and ID checks. But parents are rightly asking — what happens to children’s biometric data? Is it stored, deleted, or misused?

---

⚠️ Why Parents Are Concerned

• Predators & Grooming: Open chat features and community-created games can expose children to grooming attempts.
• Unsafe Content: Games like “Public Bathroom” have raised alarm bells about what children can stumble across.
• Profit vs Safety: Critics argue Roblox prioritises engagement (and profit) over genuine child safety.
• Data Privacy: Biometric verification may stop some risks — but raises new questions about how children’s personal data is handled.

---

✅ How Parents Can Protect Their Children

Here are practical steps every parent should take if their child plays Roblox:

1. Use Parental Controls
   • In your child’s Roblox settings, set the account to “under 13.”
   • Turn on chat filters and restrict in-game purchases.
2. Regularly Review Games
   • Check the titles your child is playing. Block or report anything inappropriate.
3. Talk to Your Child
   • Especially for neurodiverse children, make sure they understand:
     • Never share personal info (age, address, school).
     • Leave a game immediately if they feel uncomfortable.
4. Set Boundaries
   • Agree on time limits and check in on their gameplay.
   • Play with them occasionally to see what the environment is like.
5. Stay Informed
   • Keep up with Roblox safety updates and government regulations like the Online Safety Act, which is pushing companies to take child protection seriously.

---

💡 Final Thoughts

Roblox isn’t going away — it’s too big, and millions of children enjoy it daily. But parents need to be aware of the risks, set strong boundaries, and stay informed.

At AskEllie, our mission is to help families cut through fear and rumours with facts you can trust.

👉 If you’re worried about online safety or need SEND-focused parenting support, visit www.AskEllie.co.uk.

Over the past week, viral videos have spread across TikTok and Facebook claiming that the UK government has signed “mass fatality contracts” — and suggesting this means something terrible is about to happen. Understandably, many parents have been left feeling anxious and afraid.

At AskEllie, our role is to cut through fear and rumours with facts. Here’s what you need to know.

---

🚨 What Are Mass Fatality Contracts?

“Mass fatality contracts” are agreements that local authorities or central government sometimes sign with private companies, usually funeral providers or facilities managers. They are designed to ensure there is extra capacity available in the event of a major incident.

This could include:

• Natural disasters
• Pandemics (like COVID-19)
• Terror attacks
• Large-scale accidents

These contracts are not new. In fact, they have existed for decades. They are part of routine emergency planning to make sure the system can cope if the worst were ever to happen.

---

⚠️ Why Are People Worried Now?

• A clip highlighting a recently renewed contract went viral on TikTok, framed as if it was “secret evidence” of an imminent disaster.
• The language — “mass fatality” — sounds frightening, especially without context.
• Social media amplified the claim, creating fear that “the government knows something we don’t.”

But the truth is simple: these contracts are renewed regularly and published openly in procurement databases. They are not a sign that something is about to happen.

---

✅ What Parents Should Know

1. This is normal emergency planning. Governments everywhere plan for worst-case scenarios — it doesn’t mean one is imminent.
2. These contracts existed long before now. They were in place during COVID-19 and even before, to ensure resilience.
3. The scary framing is the issue. Social media posts often strip out context, making routine planning sound like a secret warning.

---

💡 How to Talk to Children About It

If your child sees these videos online and asks about them:

• Reassure them: “This doesn’t mean something bad is about to happen, it just means the government has a backup plan — like schools doing fire drills.”
• Remind them not everything online is true.
• Encourage them to ask questions if something they see worries them.

---

🧭 Final Thoughts

Mass fatality contracts are not evidence of a looming disaster. They are simply part of the safety net governments put in place to be prepared.

At AskEllie, we know parents are bombarded with rumours that can be frightening. That’s why we exist — to provide fact-checked, calm guidance, especially when children’s wellbeing and family peace of mind are at stake.

👉 Stay informed, not fearful. For more myth-busting and SEND parent support, visit www.AskEllie.co.uk.

Recently, viral TikTok videos and social media posts have claimed that the UK’s current terror threat level means parents should be too scared to send their children to school. Some even suggest schools are at immediate risk. Understandably, this has caused worry and confusion.

At AskEllie, we want to cut through the fear and explain what the “substantial” threat level really means — and why it isn’t the warning some videos make it sound like.

---

🚨 What Does “Substantial” Mean?

The UK uses a 5-point terror threat system, managed by MI5 and the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC):

• Low – an attack is highly unlikely
• Moderate – an attack is possible but not likely
• Substantial – an attack is likely
• Severe – an attack is highly likely
• Critical – an attack is highly likely in the near future

Right now, the level is set at substantial.

---

⚠️ Why Parents Are Concerned

• Some viral posts are framing this as if it’s “new information” that means schools are under direct threat.
• In reality, the UK threat level has moved between substantial and severe for years, often without parents even noticing.
• The level reflects a general risk across the country, not a specific plot or warning about schools.

---

✅ What This Means for You and Your Children

1. Day-to-day life continues as normal. Threat levels are used by police and security services to guide resources — they are not a signal to keep children home.
2. Schools are not being directly targeted. While schools may practise safety drills, these are part of general safeguarding — not because of an imminent danger.
3. It’s about preparation, not panic. A “substantial” level means authorities are alert and planning ahead, not that families should change daily routines.

---

🧭 How to Talk to Children About It

If your child has seen scary TikTok clips:

• Reassure them that nothing has changed in their school environment.
• Explain that the government always prepares for “what ifs,” just like schools run fire drills.
• Encourage them to come to you with questions instead of worrying silently.

---

💡 Final Thoughts

The UK terror threat level being at “substantial” is not new, and it does not mean schools or children are under immediate threat.

Unfortunately, social media often amplifies rumours, stripping away the context and creating unnecessary fear.

At AskEllie, our mission is to help parents stay informed with facts, not fear — so that families can make decisions based on truth, not panic.

👉 For more fact-checks and SEND parent support, visit www.AskEllie.co.uk.

Money is tight. Days out are hard. And half the helpful schemes are hidden. This page rounds up the cards, passes, and services that can save you time, stress, and cash—with clear notes on who it’s for, what you get, and how to apply.

---

Quick Wins (start here)

CEA Card – Free Carer at the Cinema

https://www.ceacard.co.uk

What it is: A card that lets a parent/carer go free with a disabled child at most UK cinemas.
Helps with: Cost, dignity (no re‑explaining needs every visit).
Usually need: DLA/PIP or similar evidence.
How to apply: Online application; small annual fee (often covered by some local charities).

Max Card – Discounted Days Out

https://mymaxcard.co.uk

What it is: A discount card for families of children with additional needs.
Helps with: Cheaper entry at hundreds of attractions (theme parks, museums, farms, play centres).
Usually need: DLA/EHCP/Local Offer eligibility (varies by area).
How to get it: Often issued via your Local Authority, school SENCo, or local charities.

Access Card (+1)

https://www.accesscard.online

What it is: A card with symbols that discreetly communicate needs (e.g., +1 carer, queueing difficulty).
Helps with: Proof for carer tickets, queue adjustments, reduced explanations.
Usually need: Evidence of disability/need when you apply.
Good for: Large venues, concerts, theme parks.

Sunflower Lanyard (Hidden Disabilities)

https://hdsunflower.com

What it is: A free lanyard used in supermarkets, airports, and many venues to indicate a hidden disability.
Helps with: Extra time, patience, quiet support.
How to get it: Ask at customer services (most major supermarkets/airports have them) or order online.

Merlin Attractions – Carer Tickets / Ride Access

https://www.merlinannualpass.co.uk/important-information/passholder-help/passholder-accessibility

What it is: Many Merlin parks (LEGOLAND, Alton Towers, Chessington, etc.) offer free carer tickets and Ride Access Passes for guests who can’t queue.
Helps with: Cost and queueing adjustments for sensory/anxiety needs.
Usually need: DLA/PIP/Access Card or medical evidence.
How to apply: Check each park’s Accessibility page; upload evidence in advance where required.

---

Services & Support You Don’t Pay For

SENDIASS (Free, Independent Advice)

What it is: Your local SEND Information, Advice and Support Service.
Helps with: EHCPs, meetings, complaints, reasonable adjustments, tribunals.
How to find it: Search “SENDIASS + your council”.

Local Offer (Activities & Short Breaks)

What it is: Every council must publish a Local Offer listing SEND services, activities, short breaks, and grants.
Helps with: Free/low‑cost clubs, respite, holiday schemes, equipment.
How to find it: Search “[Your Council] Local Offer”.

DLA / PIP Form Help (Free)

What it is: Charities provide free guidance to complete DLA/PIP forms.
Helps with: Getting the wording right so you don’t miss out.
Who to ask: Contact, Citizens Advice, and local carers’ organisations.

Carer Support & Discounts

What it is: Local carers’ centres offer free advice, small grants, breaks, and discount schemes.
Helps with: Money off essentials, respite options, wellbeing support.
How to find it: Search “carers centre + your town”.

---

Travel & Days Out

Disabled Person’s Bus Pass (and Companion Pass)

What it is: Free or discounted bus travel for disabled passengers; many areas offer a free companion pass too.
Helps with: School runs, appointments, days out without driving.
How to apply: Via your local council website.

National Trust / English Heritage Accessibility

What it is: Free Essential Companion cards and inclusive access schemes.
Helps with: Calmer outdoor spaces; carer goes free.
How to apply: Check each organisation’s accessibility page.

Airports: Special Assistance & Sunflower Lanyard

What it is: Free airport assistance through security and boarding; lanyard signals hidden needs.
How to arrange: Tell your airline at booking (or at least 48 hours before), then visit the Special Assistance desk at the airport.

——————————————————————-

National Disability Card

More info & apply: www.nationaldisabilitycard.co.uk

A nationally recognised photo ID card for disabled people that can be used to discreetly prove disability without explaining personal details. Accepted in many attractions, shops, and events to access concessions or reasonable adjustments.
Cost: Around £15 (valid for 3 years).

---

Tip Sheet: Applying Without Stress

• Evidence beats essays. DLA/PIP award letter, EHCP, professional letters—attach what you have.
• Ask locally first. Many councils/charities fund fees (CEA/Access Card) or issue Max Cards directly.
• Plan for crowds. Look for quiet hours, morning slots, or SEND sessions.
• Email accessibility teams. A short, polite email before you go often unlocks smoother support.
• Keep a folder on your phone. Photos/PDFs of letters save time and reduce awkward conversations.

---

FAQ

Do I need a diagnosis for these?
Not always. Many schemes accept evidence of need (EHCP, professional letter) rather than a formal diagnosis.

Can I get a free carer ticket without an Access Card?
Often yes—venues usually accept DLA/PIP proof or their own online forms. The Access Card just makes it easier.

Is Max Card nationwide?
Coverage varies by area. If your council doesn’t issue it, ask local charities—they sometimes can.

---

Keep This Page Handy

We’ll update this list regularly. If you find a great free (or low‑cost) scheme for SEND families, tell us and we’ll add it.

Need help wording emails or applications?
Head to our Template Letters page for quick copy‑and‑paste messages to venues, schools, and councils.

More support: AskEllie helps with EHCPs, Section 19, transport, appeals and more—free tools built by SEND parents, for SEND parents.