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  • Can You Legally Defend a School Fine? Understanding Section 444 of the Education Act 1996

    For many parents navigating school attendance challenges—especially when their child has SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) or mental health issues—receiving a school fine can feel like a crushing blow. But did you know that there are legal protections in place that might apply to your situation?

    One of the most important is Section 444 of the Education Act 1996.

    What Is Section 444?

    Section 444 of the Education Act 1996 is the UK law that outlines a parent’s duty to ensure their child attends school “regularly.” However, it also makes clear that there are defences available to parents who have a valid reason for non-attendance.

    Under Section 444(1), it is an offence if a parent fails to ensure their child attends regularly. However, Section 444(3) provides a defence if:

    • The parent proves the child was absent with reasonable justification
    • The child was prevented from attending by illness or unavoidable cause

    Mental Health and SEND as Defences

    Importantly, these defences can include:

    • Mental health struggles
    • Autism, PDA, ADHD, and other diagnoses
    • Emotional-Based School Avoidance (EBSA)

    You do not always need a medical letter to prove this. The Department for Education has updated its guidance to say that evidence should be flexible and proportionate. A parent’s word—especially if supported by a wider context of EHCP, CAMHS referrals, or professional concerns—can be enough.

    What Schools and Local Authorities Get Wrong

    Many schools incorrectly claim that absences must be marked as unauthorised unless a GP provides a letter. But this is not what the law says.

    In fact, the DfE guidance is clear: schools should not demand evidence that would be difficult for a parent to obtain, especially when mental health services like CAMHS are overwhelmed.

    What You Can Do

    If you’ve been issued a fine:

    1. Check how your child’s absence has been recorded.
    2. Request copies of school attendance records.
    3. Write to the school and LA with your reasons and reference Section 444.
    4. Use our free template letter on the AskEllie Letter Templates page.

    You may have a valid legal defence.

    Final Thought

    No parent should be punished for protecting a child’s mental health. Section 444 of the Education Act 1996 is there to protect you — but many families don’t even know it exists.

    If you’re facing fines, threats of legal action, or judgment from professionals, please remember: you are not alone, and you may have legal protections.

    Head to www.askellie.co.uk for free, clear guidance — and to try Ellie, your AI assistant trained on UK SEND law.

    Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For individual cases, consult a qualified legal adviser.

  • New Government Guidance on Mental Health and School Attendance: What Every Parent Needs to Know

    If your child is struggling with their mental health and is unable to attend school, you are not alone. Thousands of families across the UK are facing the same battle — and up until now, many schools have insisted on formal medical evidence before they will make adjustments or provide alternative education. But a recent update from the Department for Education has changed everything.

    You no longer need medical evidence to prove your child is struggling.

    In updated statutory guidance, the Department for Education has made it clear: schools should not demand medical evidence before providing support for children experiencing school-related anxiety or mental health difficulties. This is especially important given the long waiting times for CAMHS referrals — often up to 3 or 4 years.

    This new guidance overrides school policies that say a child must have a doctor’s note or CAMHS diagnosis to qualify for adjustments or off-site education. If your child is mentally unwell, schools must now respond based on need — not just paperwork.

    What happens if your child has missed more than 15 days?

    If your child has been out of school for 15 days or more (consecutively or cumulatively) due to mental health, illness, or anxiety — and they are not receiving any alternative education — the local authority may be failing in its legal duty under Section 19 of the Education Act 1996.

    Many parents don’t realise that after 15 days, the council must provide suitable alternative education, even if it’s part-time or home-based. This applies whether your child has an EHCP or not.

    How can you take action?

    We’ve created a free template letter you can download and send to your local authority or school. This letter explains the law, references the updated DfE guidance, and requests that your child is given the educational support they are entitled to.

    You’ll find this in our Letter Templates section:

    Final Thoughts

    We know how overwhelming this process can be — especially when you’re also trying to care for a child in crisis. But the law is on your side, and you do not need to wait for a diagnosis to get help. Don’t let school policies or long waiting lists delay the support your child deserves.

    If you need further help, come by and see us at AskEllie.co.uk.

  • 🚪 Why You Don’t Have to Let the Local Authority Into Your Home (And Why You Might Not Want To)

    If you’re home educating your child, chances are you’ve already had someone from the Local Authority (LA) ask to visit your home — often framed as a “routine” check or friendly visit.

    But here’s the truth many parents don’t realise: you are not legally required to allow home visits from the LA. And in many cases, it’s better that you don’t.

    ⚖️ What the Law Actually Says

    Under UK law, local authorities have a duty to make informal enquiries if they believe a child may not be receiving a suitable education. But that’s all it is — an enquiry. You are under no legal obligation to:

    • Invite them into your home
    • Allow them to meet your child
    • Follow any school-style learning model

    You are well within your rights to respond in writing, or offer a meeting at a neutral venue if you feel comfortable doing so. It’s your choice — and saying no doesn’t make you suspicious.

    🚨 The Risk of Home Visits

    Welcoming an LA officer into your home might feel like the “cooperative” thing to do — but it comes with real risks.

    Once inside your home, everything they see can be interpreted and reported. We’ve heard too many stories where:

    • A child having a meltdown was seen as a “behavioural issue”
    • A messy kitchen became a “safeguarding concern”
    • A flexible or unschooling approach was mistaken for “lack of education”
    • A lack of printed worksheets led to claims of “no evidence of learning”

    In some cases, visits have even led to unnecessary referrals to social care — all because the official didn’t fully understand the home educating style or the child’s additional needs.

    ✅ What You Can Do Instead

    If you receive a request for a home visit, you can politely respond with something like:

    “Thank you for your interest. I’m happy to provide a written report and examples of my child’s learning. At this time, I do not consent to a home visit.”

    You can include photos, samples of work, reading lists, or simply explain your educational approach. This is especially important if you’re using a method that doesn’t look like traditional school — such as unschooling, neurodiversity-led learning, or nature-based education. These approaches are valid, even if they’re not always understood by education officers.

    💬 Final Thoughts

    You know your child best. You are their advocate, their voice, and their protector. You are also their educator — and that gives you rights.

    If you’re unsure how to respond to the LA, or need a template letter to decline a home visit, AskEllie.co.uk has resources and guidance to help. You don’t have to do this alone.

    📍Need help?
    Start a free, private chat with Ellie — your SEND & EHCP legal assistant — at www.askellie.co.uk

  • 🧠🚗 Can You Get a Blue Badge for a Child with Autism? Here’s What You Need to Know

    If you’re parenting a child with Autism (ASD), PDA, or another neurodevelopmental condition — you already know that getting in and out of the car isn’t always straightforward.

    Meltdowns, bolting, sensory overload, and transition struggles can make a short walk from a car park feel like a mountain to climb. Yet many parents don’t realise that you can apply for a Blue Badge under the “hidden disabilities” criteria — even if your child doesn’t have a physical disability.

    💡 What is the Blue Badge Scheme?

    The Blue Badge Scheme allows people with certain disabilities to park closer to their destination — often in dedicated bays, or for free in some areas. Traditionally, this was seen as something for people with physical mobility issues.

    But since 2019, guidance in England, Wales and Northern Ireland has been updated to include people with non-visible (hidden) disabilities — such as Autism, ADHD, severe anxiety, and PDA.

    ✅ Can My Autistic Child Get a Blue Badge?

    Yes — if your child meets the criteria for being at risk or unable to make journeys safely, they may be eligible.

    Your child may qualify if:

    • They have no sense of danger and may run off in car parks or roads
    • They experience meltdowns, shutdowns, or become extremely distressed during journeys
    • They need to be as close as possible to entrances to reduce risk of distress
    • They have high sensory needs (e.g. noise, lights, busy spaces) which can trigger panic
    • Transitions from car to destination often cause refusal or dysregulation

    You can also apply if they receive the higher mobility rate of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) — but this is not required.

    📄 What Evidence Do I Need?

    While some councils will consider your application based on what you write alone, providing supporting evidence can strengthen your case.

    Useful documents include:

    • A letter from a paediatrician, CAMHS professional, or GP
    • A report or observation from an Occupational Therapist
    • School reports or letters from the SENCO
    • Your child’s DLA award (if you have it)
    • Any EHCP (though again, this is not essential)
    • Incident logs or videos (e.g. meltdowns, bolting, etc.)

    ✍️ How to Apply

    Each local council runs its own application process.

    🧭 To apply, Google:
    “Blue Badge hidden disability + [your local council name]”
    This will take you to the right form and guidance.

    Most applications are now online, and you’ll be asked to explain your child’s difficulties in detail. You may also be invited to an assessment.

    💬 What to Say in the Application

    Be clear, specific, and honest. Here are a few examples of the kind of wording that helps councils understand the daily reality:

    • “My child has no awareness of danger and bolts into roads or between cars in car parks.”
    • “He cannot manage transitions and becomes overwhelmed if we park far away.”
    • “She has frequent meltdowns that put her and others at risk when walking across busy spaces.”
    • “He requires a calm, close environment to regulate — long walks from the car are not possible.”

    🟪 You’re Not Alone

    We’ve been through this too — which is exactly why we created AskEllie.co.uk.

    Ellie is your free AI-powered assistant for navigating SEND life:
    🧠 EHCPs
    📋 Legal advice
    🖋️ Template letters
    💡 Benefits and entitlements like this one

    Ellie gives you clear, legally grounded answers, 24/7 — so you don’t have to fight alone.

    📌 Final Thought

    A Blue Badge isn’t a luxury — it can be a lifeline for families with autistic children. If you’ve been struggling with appointments, school drop-offs, or even a simple shop run… this could make a real difference.

    Don’t wait to be told you’re entitled. Apply today — and if you need help, Ellie’s here for you.

  • 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.