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  • No EHCP? Why Your Child May Not Be Fully Safeguarded in Mainstream School – And What You Can Do About It

    If your child has special educational needs or disabilities (SEND) but doesn’t yet have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), you’re not alone — and you may be shocked to learn what this really means when it comes to their safety and support in school.

    Many parents assume that if their child is in school, then they are automatically being safeguarded. But here’s the truth:

    Without an EHCP, schools are not legally obligated to put in place all the specialist support your child may need to be kept truly safe.

    What Does the Law Actually Say?

    Mainstream schools have a legal duty under the Equality Act 2010 to make “reasonable adjustments.” But this only goes so far. Without an EHCP, there’s no statutory requirement for them to:

    • Provide 1:1 support
    • Fund specialist therapies or provisions
    • Offer tailored interventions or equipment
    • Adjust staffing ratios for safety

    This means children who are struggling — emotionally, physically, or academically — may fall through the cracks. And sadly, many do.

    Real Stories From Parents

    At AskEllie, we’ve spoken to hundreds of parents whose children:

    • Were regularly sent home due to ‘overwhelm’ or dysregulation
    • Were not given safe spaces to regulate in school
    • Were bullied or misunderstood without proper adult supervision
    • Experienced EBSA (Emotionally Based School Avoidance) and ended up out of education

    All because they didn’t yet have an EHCP in place.

    So What Can You Do?

    1. Apply for an EHCP Needs Assessment
      You do NOT need the school’s permission to apply. Parents can apply directly to their local authority. We’ve made this easy with our free template letter and checklist – available now at AskEllie.co.uk
    2. Keep Evidence
      Start building a timeline: notes, emails, exclusions, reports, behaviour logs, medical visits — it all helps.
    3. Mention Safeguarding
      In your EHCP request or complaint, clearly explain that your child cannot be fully safeguarded without the appropriate level of provision. This often strengthens your case.
    4. Get Help Writing It
      Use AskEllie+, our free AI assistant trained on SEND law, to help you write letters, respond to LA emails, and know your rights.

    Our Message to Parents

    You shouldn’t have to fight this hard. But until the system changes, it’s vital that you know where you stand legally — and what tools are available.

    At AskEllie, we’ve been through it ourselves. We’re parents, not professionals. And we created Ellie to help others avoid the same delays, stress, and burnout we went through.

    If your child is in mainstream school with SEND and no EHCP, take action today. Don’t wait until a crisis.

    Ready to Start?

    Visit www.askellie.co.uk and search “EHCP” to:

    Disclaimer: This article is for information only and does not constitute legal advice. For full legal support, contact a qualified SEND solicitor or advocacy service.

  • How to Apply for the Household Support Fund (Step-by-Step Guide)

    Families raising children with SEND are often hit hardest by the cost-of-living crisis. But did you know you may be entitled to extra support worth up to £500 in food vouchers, clothing, energy costs, or even rent payments — through the Household Support Fund?

    If your child has additional needs, you’re on a low income or Universal Credit, or you’re struggling to make ends meet, here’s what you need to know.

    🏡 What Is the Household Support Fund?

    The Household Support Fund is a government fund distributed by local councils in England. It’s designed to help people who are struggling with essential costs like:

    • 🛒 Food
    • 🔌 Energy bills
    • 🧥 Clothing
    • 🏠 Rent or household essentials

    Every council decides how to use the fund in their area, and the eligibility rules and what they offer can vary.

    ✅ Who Can Apply?

    Most councils focus on helping:

    • Low-income families (including those on Universal Credit, PIP, DLA, or Carer’s Allowance)
    • Parents of children with SEND or EHCPs
    • Those struggling with rising energy or food costs
    • People at risk of homelessness
    • Carers and vulnerable adults

    Even if you’ve been refused other help before, you may still qualify for this.

    📝 How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

    1. Find your local council’s scheme
    2. Check eligibility and available support
      • Some councils offer food vouchers.
      • Others offer energy top-ups, help with school uniforms, or emergency rent payments.
    3. Complete the online application
      • Have ready:
        • Your National Insurance number
        • Proof of benefits or income
        • Child’s DLA or EHCP status (if applicable)
        • Recent utility bills or rent statements
    4. Include a short explanation
      • Explain how your child’s needs affect your costs.
      • Be honest and clear: mention things like needing to stay home for care, extra laundry, heating, or food needs.
    5. Wait for confirmation
      • Councils usually reply within 7–21 days.
      • Support may come as vouchers, a payment to your bank, or energy top-ups.

    🔄 Can I Apply More Than Once?

    Yes, in many areas you can reapply every few months if your situation is still difficult. Always check your local council’s rules.

    📌 Tips from Other Parents

    • Mention if your child is home educated due to SEND or is on reduced hours.
    • If you’re not in receipt of PIP/DLA, still apply — many councils accept low income as enough.
    • Keep a copy of any letters or emails – especially if they confirm refusal or delay.

    💬 Need Help Writing What to Say?

    Use AskEllie+ to draft your support explanation. It’s a free AI assistant trained on UK SEND law and parent experiences — you can even upload your documents and get help step-by-step.

    ⚠️ Disclaimer

    This blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Every council runs the Household Support Fund differently, and eligibility criteria may change. We recommend checking directly with your local council for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

    🧠 Quick Summary

    ✅ You Could Get🗓 How Often💡 How to Apply
    £100–£500 in help with food, energy, rent, or clothingSome allow every 3–6 monthsVia your local council’s Household Support Fund page

  • How Not to Get Turned Down for a SEND Term-Time Holiday (Part 2)

    In our latest viral video (Part 2), we dive deeper into the ongoing issue so many SEND families face: being denied permission to take a term-time holiday, even when it’s needed for wellbeing or regulation.

    The comments under our first video were overwhelming. With over half a million views, hundreds of parents shared both success stories and heartbreaking examples of being fined, denied, or outright ignored. We read every single one, and this post is here to help clear up the confusion — and give you your best chance at getting it right next time.

    Common Questions and Where Parents Went Wrong:

    Q1: My child has an EHCP, so why was I still refused?
    A: An EHCP alone doesn’t guarantee approval. The request needs to clearly show why the trip is essential to your child’s SEND needs, not just that they have a diagnosis. Use your child’s plan wording where possible.

    Q2: The school said it was the LA’s decision — not theirs. Who is actually in charge?
    A: Technically, it’s the headteacher who has the legal power to authorise an absence under ‘exceptional circumstances’. But many heads are under pressure from the local authority’s attendance teams — so it becomes a grey area. Your request must be bulletproof to pass through both.

    Q3: I had backing from CAMHS or a paediatrician, and still got fined.
    A: Sadly, medical backing isn’t always enough. What matters most is how well the letter is written — and whether it makes a strong legal and emotional case. The timing and tone of your request also matter.

    Q4: Can I include siblings in the request?
    A: Yes — but again, explain clearly how separating the family or forcing one child into a high-stress environment would negatively impact the SEND child’s wellbeing.

    Q5: We were told it’s never allowed. Is that true?
    A: No. It’s not true. Headteachers can approve time off under exceptional circumstances, and SEND-related wellbeing needs can fall under that category — if framed correctly.

    Why So Many Are Getting Refused (Even With Legit Reasons)

    After analysing all the comments and doing our legal research, we found that most refusals boiled down to 3 things:

    1. Requests weren’t detailed enough.
      Vague reasons like “for wellbeing” or “it’ll help regulate them” don’t cut it. Be specific, use EHCP wording, diagnoses, and past evidence.
    2. Wrong tone or timing.
      Demands don’t work. Think collaborative, respectful, evidence-based. And ideally, request as early as possible.
    3. Poorly structured letters.
      Most parents used generic absence forms or just wrote a quick note. You need a tailored, legally-informed letter that ticks all the boxes — and anticipates objections.

    ✅ New Updated Template Letter & Checklist Available

    We’ve taken on board everything and created a new and improved downloadable letter template, complete with a checklist to help you:

    • Frame your request using the right language
    • Include SEND-specific arguments backed by guidance
    • Avoid the common mistakes that lead to rejection or fines

    📥 Download it now at AskEllie.co.uk/templates

    Final Word

    This isn’t about gaming the system — it’s about making sure genuine needs are taken seriously. Our community is growing, and the more we share tools and strategies that work, the stronger we become.

    📌 Watch Part 2 on TikTok
    📎 Use AskEllie+ to help generate your letter and back it up with law
    💬 Join the conversation in the comments — you’re not alone.

    Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalised guidance, always consult a qualified advisor. AskEllie is an AI tool trained on UK SEND law but is not a solicitor.

  • How Grandparents (and Other Family Carers) Can Get Thousands in State Pension Credits

    If you’re a grandparent or other family member helping to care for a child while the parent works, you could be missing out on something really valuable: National Insurance credits that count towards your State Pension — potentially worth over £5,000 in retirement.

    This little-known benefit is part of a scheme called Specified Adult Childcare Credits, and it’s one of the most underclaimed entitlements in the UK.

    Who Can Claim?

    You might be eligible if:

    • You’re a grandparent or other family member (uncle, aunt, older sibling, etc.)
    • You looked after a child under 12 at any point during a tax year
    • The child’s parent or main carer is working and getting Child Benefit
    • You are under State Pension age yourself (currently 66)

    You do not need to live with the child to be eligible.

    What Do You Get?

    You could receive Class 3 NI credits for each year you cared, which helps fill any gaps in your NI record. This could:

    • Increase your future State Pension
    • Be worth over £250 per year, every year, for life
    • Add up to £5,000+ over a typical 20-year retirement

    Even if you worked part-time or didn’t think of yourself as a “formal carer,” you’re still encouraged to apply.

    How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)

    1. Ask the Child Benefit recipient (usually the parent) to agree to transfer their NI credit for that year to you.
    2. Download and complete form CA9176 from the gov.uk website.
      • You can search “CA9176 form” or find the link via AskEllie.co.uk (search: “grandparent pension”)
    3. Post it to HMRC at the address on the form.
    4. You should receive confirmation once processed. It can take several weeks.

    Top Tips

    • Claims can be backdated to 2011
    • You must apply for each tax year you were eligible
    • You don’t need to have cared full-time — even a few hours a week can count

    Real Talk

    This is your pension we’re talking about. If you gave your time, energy, and love to help your family by caring for a child so a parent could work, you deserve to be recognised for it.

    Make the system work for you.

    Need Help?

    Visit www.AskEllie.co.uk and search “grandparent pension” for direct links to:

    • The official form (CA9176)
    • Step-by-step video guide
    • Community comments

    You can also use AskEllie+ for free help drafting letters or checking your eligibility.

  • How SEND Families Can Reduce Their Council Tax: What You Need to Know

    Introduction

    Many families caring for children with SEND (or parents with disabilities themselves) assume they must pay full council tax — but that’s not always true. Under UK council tax law, there are mechanisms that can reduce a bill if a property has been adapted to meet the needs of a disabled person. In this post, I’ll walk through:

    1. Which legal routes are available
    2. Eligibility criteria and common pitfalls
    3. How to apply (step by step)
    4. What to do if your application is denied

    1. Legal Routes / Schemes to Check

    a) Disabled Band Reduction / Disability Relief

    This is the main route most relevant for SEND or disabled households. If your home is larger or adapted because of a disability, you may qualify for a band reduction. Instead of paying the tax based on your current band, your property is treated as if it is one band lower.

    This scheme is backed by The Council Tax (Reductions for Disabilities) Regulations 1992 (as amended) and by local council discount/exemption policies. Legislation.gov.uk

    Each local council may call it slightly differently (e.g. “disabled band reduction,” “disabled relief”) and have different requirements.

    b) Council Tax Reduction / Support

    This is a means-tested discount for people with low income or on benefits (Universal Credit, etc.). It is separate from the disabled band reduction and depends on your household’s income, savings, and benefits.
    📝 Note: Being eligible for Universal Credit does not automatically grant a council tax reduction. You still must apply.
    GOV.UK+1

    c) Other Discounts & Exemptions

    • Severely mentally impaired (SMI) status can qualify someone for a full or partial discount.
    • Live‑in carers sometimes qualify for reductions if they meet criteria.
    • Single person discount (25%) if only one adult is liable to pay (though this is separate from disability reductions).
      Scope+2Disability Rights UK+2

    2. Who Qualifies — Key Eligibility Criteria & Pitfalls

    To succeed, your application must meet both a disability standard and property adaptation criteria.

    Disability / Who counts

    • Someone in the household must be substantially and permanently disabled (by illness, congenital condition, injury, etc.).
    • The disabled person does not need to be the council tax payer. It can be a child or another occupant. Bath & North East Somerset Council+2Haringey Council+2
    • Having an EHCP, autism, chronic health conditions, etc., can support your case, but the council will assess how serious and permanent the impact is.

    Property / Adaptation or necessity

    At least one of the following must be true in most councils:

    • An extra room (not bathroom/kitchen) used mainly for the disabled person’s needs (e.g. storing equipment, therapy space).
    • An additional bathroom or kitchen required for the disabled person.
    • Enough floor space for indoor wheelchair use (i.e. the property must allow movement of wheelchair within).
      rbkc.gov.uk+4Haringey Council+4Bath & North East Somerset Council+4

    Additionally:

    • The adaptation or room must be of “major importance” to the disabled person’s well-being. Simply having a medical device or occasional equipment use is not enough. South Gloucestershire Council+1
    • Some adaptations do not qualify: for instance, stairlifts, railings, or walking frame use may not count, depending on council policy. Haringey Council+1
    • If a disabled person only uses a wheelchair outdoors, it might not qualify under some councils’ rules. Haringey Council

    Pitfall to watch:

    3. How to Apply — Step by Step

    1. Check your local council’s website
      Search for “disabled band reduction,” “disabled relief,” or “council tax discount for disabled people.”
      Example: Bath & North East Somerset clearly outlines how to apply. Bath & North East Somerset Council
    2. Gather your evidence
      • Diagnosis, medical reports, EHCP
      • Details/photos of the adapted parts or rooms
      • Statements about how these adaptions are essential
      • Floor plans or accessibility assessments, if available
    3. Complete the application form
      Usually online or via downloadable PDF. Some councils may invite an internal inspection by a valuation officer.
      (Pay your existing tax bill until decision is made — you can’t withhold payment)
      Royal Greenwich+2South Gloucestershire Council+2
    4. Wait for decision
      Councils often take a few weeks; some may require a visit.
      Once approved, your tax will be recalculated to one band lower (or reduced for Band A)
      Bath & North East Somerset Council+2South Gloucestershire Council+2
    5. Check annually / report changes
      Your eligibility may be reviewed each year. Report changes (e.g. if the disabled person moves out or modifications removed).
      Bath & North East Somerset Council+1

    4. What to Do If Your Application Is Denied

    • Ask for written reasons for refusal.
    • Review the decision, comparing your evidence with the council’s criteria.
    • Appeal / escalate: Many councils allow appeals internally, or you may refer to a Valuation Tribunal (in England/Wales).
      Citizens Advice+1
    • Seek help from Citizens Advice, SENDIASS, or disability rights organisations.
    • Reapply if new evidence or changes arise (e.g. additional adaptations).

    5. Example Case (Hypothetical)

    Imagine a family where a child with autism uses a sensory room at home, requires extra space for equipment, and has mobility issues. The home has widened doorways, and a room dedicated to therapy. The council may grant a disabled band reduction because the adaptations were crucial for daily functioning.

    Closing Thoughts & Reminder

    • Not all councils grant relief — decisions vary by area and how well you present your case.
    • Reductions may seem small monthly, but over a year they add up.
    • The more evidence you provide, the stronger your case.

    Disclaimer: I am a parent, not a lawyer. The information in this post is based on publicly available guidance and should not be taken as legal advice. Always check with your local council and consider consulting a legal or financial adviser for your own situation.

  • Term Time Holidays: What Parents of SEND Children Need to Know (Part 1)

    For many families of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), term-time holidays aren’t about cheap deals or convenience — they can be a lifeline.

    Between the sensory overload of peak-season crowds, the rigid school schedules, and the impact of burnout, some children simply cannot cope with traditional school attendance patterns. That’s why understanding your rights as a parent is so important, especially when it comes to taking time off during the school term.

    What the Law Says

    Schools must follow the Department for Education’s guidance, which states that they can only authorise term-time absence in “exceptional circumstances.”

    Exceptional circumstances can include:

    • Medical or mental health reasons (with evidence)
    • Children with SEND who are experiencing school-related anxiety or burnout
    • Families with disabled parents or siblings who need to travel at quieter times for sensory or health reasons
    • Siblings of a child with SEND where the family needs a calm break to maintain wellbeing

    Your Rights with an EHCP

    If your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), your child’s needs should be fully considered before any penalty is issued. Schools must take into account:

    • Sensory needs
    • Mental health needs
    • The impact of travel on the child
    • Whether travel forms part of agreed provision (e.g., for emotional regulation or cultural learning)

    If a holiday supports your child’s SEN needs or is part of a staged reintegration plan, this can sometimes be lawfully authorised.

    Can You Be Fined?

    Yes, technically schools can issue fines, but you can appeal the fine if you believe your case falls under “exceptional circumstances.” It’s important to keep a clear paper trail of communications, including requests, evidence, and responses.

    We’ve created a free template letter you can download to request term-time leave based on your child’s needs. Use this as a formal way to explain your circumstances and request approval in advance.

    Real Examples of Approved Absences

    Here are a few examples shared by our community:

    • A family took their autistic child to a quiet seaside town in term time because the child can’t cope with summer heat or crowds.
    • A child with ADHD and anxiety was granted time off for a sensory-friendly nature break after a period of burnout.
    • A child with PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) was authorised for an off-peak educational trip to reduce demands and re-engage with learning.

    SEND Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All

    What matters is that your child’s needs come first. We all know how vital breaks are to help our children regulate, recharge, and reconnect. Don’t feel guilty for seeking what’s right for your family.

    Get Support

    Need help wording your request? AskEllie can help. Use the free AskEllie assistant to:

    • Draft a letter to your school
    • Understand your legal rights
    • Prepare for any appeal if a fine is issued

    Disclaimer: Always check with your local authority and individual school policy. This post provides general guidance only. I am a parent, not a lawyer. The information in this post is based on publicly available guidance and should not be taken as legal advice. Always check with your local council and consider consulting a legal or financial adviser for your own situation.

    Visit Here for a free template.

    Alongside AskEllie’s free AI support, we now offer an optional private one-to-one written response service for parents who need tailored help with complex SEND situations. This service was created because we receive an overwhelming volume of messages every week from families who are desperate for clarity, reassurance and practical direction. Every penny raised goes directly into building the AskEllie app — so we can support even more parents across the UK with faster, easier access to accurate SEND guidance.

    If you’d like more information or want to request a personal response, please use the Contact Us form on the website.

  • How to Get a Free iPad or Laptop for Your SEND Child (UK Guide)

    Struggling to afford a laptop or iPad for your child with SEND? You’re not alone — and thankfully, there is help available. Whether it’s for school, home learning, or communication needs, here’s how to apply for technology support for your child with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

    💡 Why These Devices Matter for SEND Children

    Children with SEND often benefit hugely from having their own tech at home. It can help them:

    • Access learning in a more comfortable, sensory-friendly way
    • Use assistive apps (e.g., speech-to-text, timers, visual schedules)
    • Build independence and confidence
    • Communicate more easily with school or tutors

    ✅ Who Might Be Eligible?

    You don’t always need to be on benefits. The key is proving need, not just income.

    You may be eligible if:

    • Your child has an EHCP or ongoing diagnosis process
    • They’re out of school or on reduced timetable
    • They struggle to access learning due to anxiety, sensory needs or physical limitations
    • You’re currently financially stretched (even if not on benefits)

    📅 Where to Apply for Support

    ⚡ 1. Family Fund

    • Offers grants for tablets, iPads, laptops and more
    • Must be under 17 and have a high level of additional need
    • Not strictly income-based, but assessed
    • Apply at: https://www.familyfund.org.uk

    📈 2. School or Local Authority

    • Some schools can fund or loan devices via the EHCP
    • Ask for it to be written in under Section F or via an Annual Review
    • If your child is out of school, request support under Section 19 of the Education Act 1996

    📃 3. Charities & Local Schemes

    Some local or national charities offer tech grants:

    🔗 What You’ll Need

    • Basic proof of your child’s needs (EHCP, diagnosis letter, support plan)
    • Explanation of why a device is essential for learning or wellbeing
    • Evidence of financial hardship (sometimes requested)

    🚀 AskEllie Can Help

    If you’re writing to school, LA, or charity to ask for help, you can use our free template letters on AskEllie.co.uk. We also have a full video guide explaining these routes step-by-step.

    Need personalised help? Use AskEllie+, our free AI assistant trained on SEND law and entitlements.

    🌟 Final Tip

    Don’t give up if you’re refused the first time. Many parents apply more than once before being successful. Persistence and a clear explanation of your child’s needs can make all the difference.

    ✉️ Share this blog with other parents who might need it — and let us know your experiences or questions in the comments below!

    Alongside AskEllie’s free AI support, we now offer an optional private one-to-one written response service for parents who need tailored help with complex SEND situations. This service was created because we receive an overwhelming volume of messages every week from families who are desperate for clarity, reassurance and practical direction. Every penny raised goes directly into building the AskEllie app — so we can support even more parents across the UK with faster, easier access to accurate SEND guidance.

    If you’d like more information or want to request a personal response, please use the Contact Us form on the website.

  • 🏖️ Free Holidays for Disabled Children & Families — What’s Available and How to Access Them

    Families of children with disabilities often shoulder extra costs, stress, and barriers — making a proper holiday feel almost impossible. But there are grants, charities, and programmes that offer free or heavily subsidised breaks. Below is a guide to what is available now, how you can apply — and what you should ask your local authority to check

    Provider / ProgrammeWhat They OfferEligibility / NotesLink
    Family Fund — Family Break GrantsGrants for accessible UK or overseas family breaks via partners like Haven, Butlin’s, etc.Must be a low‑income family raising a disabled or seriously ill child. Breaks must be booked within 6 months. (Family Fund)Family Fund — Family Breaks
    The 3H Foundation — Holiday GrantsAwards between £250 and £550 toward UK accommodation cost.For low income families with disabled members. Grants go to venue directly. (the3hfoundation.org.uk)3H Foundation Holiday Grants
    Henry Smith Charity — Holiday Grants for ChildrenGrants to youth groups / schools to take disabled children (<13) on tripsOnly for organisations, not individual families. (Henry Smith)Henry Smith Holiday Grants
    Family Holiday Charity / Other CharitiesLow‑cost or subsidised holiday accommodation for families, illness conditionsCheck region and terms. (Family Holiday Charity)Family Holiday Charity & Resources
    Local Authority / LA ProgrammesIn some LAs, councils or “Local Offer” pages list holiday breaks, accessible grants, day visits, subsidised tripsDepends heavily on region; contact your LA’s children’s services or disability team—

    🏛️ What Your Local Authority Should Provide (Ask For These)

    • Accessible holiday/short break schemes: Many LAs have “short breaks” budgets for children with disabilities.
    • Respite or day‑trip programmes: Even if full holiday is not offered, councils sometimes provide day out schemes or smaller breaks.
    • Grants via local charities: Some LAs partner with charities and allocate funding locally.
    • Local Offer listings: Every LA has a Local Offer website — search “holiday breaks”, “short breaks”, “respite holidays”.
    • Assistance via social care or disability services: If your child is receiving services, ask whether interventions include break support.

    🛠 How to Apply & Increase Your Chances

    1. Keep an up-to-date list
      Bookmark the providers above and your LA’s offers. Grant windows often open and close fast.
    2. Prepare documents
      Prove diagnosis, disability, extra needs, financial situation. Use doctor, therapist, school statements.
    3. Write a strong story
      Explain why this break matters — to mental health, recovery, family connection. Give concrete detail.
    4. Don’t pre‑book
      Wait until approval arrives. Many grants won’t reimburse bookings made beforehand.
    5. Stay persistent
      If one round is closed, check back often. Some programmes reopen.
    6. Use AskEllie+
      You can draft your application, check eligibility, and get help with wording via the AI tool.

    📌 Why This Matters

    These holidays aren’t just “nice extras” — for many families they’re lifelines. A good break can help:

    • Reduce burnout and improve mental health
    • Let your child feel included and rested
    • Rebuild relationships without constant stress
    • Give you energy to continue fighting for justice in education, health, and social care

  • SEND Reform Warning: What the Latest Proposals Could Mean for Families

    Recent statements from the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) and wider media coverage have revealed worrying signs that the government may be preparing to make major changes to how support for children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) is delivered in England.

    From DLA (Disability Living Allowance) to EHCPs (Education, Health and Care Plans), the entire system may be on the verge of what some experts are calling “Welfare Reform 2.0”.

    But what does that actually mean for families?

    What’s Being Proposed?

    The IFS recently stated there is a “strong case” for the government to review all support systems for SEND children. This includes education support (like EHCPs), transport, and disability benefits such as DLA.

    They project that SEND spending could rise to £21 billion by 2029, suggesting that the current model is financially unsustainable. While the IFS is not a government body, its recommendations often shape future policy.

    This has sparked concerns that instead of improving support, the government could:

    • Tighten eligibility for EHCPs
    • Replace DLA with something closer to PIP (Personal Independence Payment), which has tougher assessments
    • Push for more “cost-effective” local mainstream placements, even where specialist provision is needed

    What Are the Risks?

    The biggest concern is that this reform will be driven by cost-cutting, not children’s needs.

    We’ve seen this before with the shift from DLA to PIP for adults, which led to:

    • Higher rejection rates
    • More appeals
    • Stressful assessments that don’t always recognise invisible disabilities

    If the same model is applied to children, it could mean:

    • More families losing access to essential benefits
    • A reduction in 1:1 or tailored school support
    • Local authorities rewriting EHCPs with vague language to save money
    • Fewer specialist placements approved

    What Could It Mean for Your Family?

    If you rely on:

    • DLA to afford daily care and travel costs
    • EHCPs to secure school support or transport
    • Specialist settings for your child to access education safely

    …this could all be affected.

    It might mean:

    • Reassessment of your child’s benefits
    • Increased pressure to prove their needs all over again
    • Longer waiting times for support
    • More tribunals and appeals

    For families already burned out by the current system, this could be devastating.

    How to Prepare

    1. Know your rights — Learn about Sections 19, 21, 42, and 66 of the Children and Families Act.
    2. Review your EHCP now — Is Section F specific and legally binding? If not, get it tightened.
    3. Gather evidence — From therapists, teachers, and medical professionals.
    4. Use tools like AskEllie+ — You can review your EHCP, generate letters, and get step-by-step support.
    5. Join local parent forums and national campaigns — You’re not alone.

    Final Thoughts

    Families of children with SEND have been fighting for years just to access what the law says their children are entitled to. Now it feels like we’re facing another storm.

    As the government looks to “reform” SEND and disability support, it’s vital that families stay informed, stay united, and continue to speak up.

    Because if we don’t, who will?

    Free Support Use AskEllie+, the AI tool built by a parent, not a company, to help you navigate the EHCP and SEND system with confidence. Available now on ChatGPT.

    Sources:

    • Institute for Fiscal Studies (ifs.org.uk)
    • The Guardian
    • TES
    • Special Needs Jungle

  • When SEN Transport Is Taken Away: What You Need to Know (Without the Fear)

    The fear of having your child’s transport withdrawn is very real for many parents. But before panic sets in, it’s worth pausing and looking at what the law actually allows, what local authorities might argue, and what you can do to protect your child’s rights.

    What the Law Says: The Parent’s Side

    1. Statutory duty under Section 508B / Schedule 35B (Education Act 1996)
      Local authorities have a legal duty to provide free, suitable home-to-school transport to “eligible children,” which includes children who cannot reasonably be expected to walk to school because of their SEN, disability, or mobility needs. childlawadvice.org.uk+2GOV.UK+2
    2. “Suitable travel arrangements” must match the child’s needs
      It’s not enough to just provide some form of transport — what’s offered must be safe, in reasonable comfort, and manageable given the child’s condition (e.g. behaviour, sensory needs). GOV.UK+2childlawadvice.org.uk+2
    3. Transport should not be withdrawn lightly, especially for behavioural issues tied to SEND
      Guidance and legal commentary caution that transport should only be withdrawn as a last resort, after all efforts to manage behaviour have been exhausted. Special Needs Jungle
    4. Rights to appeal and review
      If transport is refused or withdrawn, parents can request a review, escalate to independent appeal panels, even possibly raise a case for judicial review if the decision appears unlawful. childlawadvice.org.uk+2ipsea.org.uk+2
    5. Limits of transport duty for older students
      Some legal cases show that when learners reach ages 16–18, LAs may adjust transport policies. For example, Leicestershire’s change to replace transport with personal budgets was challenged but not struck down — the courts noted LAs have discretion over scarce public resources. Local Government Lawyer

    What Local Authorities Might Argue (Their View)

    1. Behaviour & safety
      LAs may argue a child’s behaviour on transport jeopardises the safety of others, or that repeated misbehaviour is beyond what they can reasonably manage. Some policies reserve the right to suspend or withdraw transport on those grounds. leeds.gov.uk+2City of London+2
    2. Resource pressures and cost
      Financial constraints are often cited — councils may claim that the cost of providing individualised transport is unsustainable, especially as numbers grow and fuel/staff costs rise.
    3. “Nearest suitable school” arguments
      Some LAs will argue the school named in the EHCP is not considered the “nearest suitable school” under transport policy, or they’ll ask parents to accept a nearer (but less preferred) setting to limit transport duty. Special Needs Jungle+2childlawadvice.org.uk+2
    4. Temporary withdrawal rather than permanent
      In some policies, transport may be withdrawn temporarily while investigations or behaviour interventions are tried — although this is controversial when children have significant needs. eani.org.uk+2Special Needs Jungle+2

    The Risks & Red Flags to Watch

    • Transport being withdrawn mid-year without adequate notice or consultation
    • Behaviour being used as a blanket reason to cancel transport rather than addressing root causes
    • Lack of clarity around appeal processes or ways to challenge the decision
    • Using discretionary powers (Section 508C) to deny transport even when statutory duty may apply
    • Not factoring in SEND or health-related travel needs (e.g. a child who physically can’t walk certain routes)

    What You Can Do to Protect Your Child

    1. Check your LA’s transport policy
      Make sure they publish their criteria, appeal process, and how they deal with behaviour-related withdrawals.
    2. Gather evidence
      Medical reports, mobility assessments, behaviour reports, or statements from professionals can support your case that transport is essential.
    3. Request a review / appeal
      Use formal review stages, independent appeals panels, and don’t hesitate to escalate.
    4. Challenge behaviour-based withdrawal
      Highlight that behaviour may be symptomatic of SEND and push for supportive measures rather than removal of transport.
    5. Raise complaints & legal routes
      If the decision seems unreasonable or unlawful, escalate to the Local Government Ombudsman or explore judicial review.
    6. Use tools to support you
      Platforms like AskEllie+ can help you draft letters, understand your rights, and provide a framework for challenging transport decisions.

    Why This Matters More Now

    With budgets squeezed and more pressure on LAs, there’s concern that removing transport is seen as an “easy cut.” Add in emerging use of AI behind the scenes — councils may increasingly rely on software to decide cutbacks without human oversight. Meanwhile, headlines and reports sometimes paint supportive parents as being radical just for asking for rights.

    For children with SEND, transport isn’t a luxury — it can make the difference between accessing education or being stranded at home. It’s essential to stay informed, push back, and ensure the law is upheld.