Appeals

SEND Matters can provide representation for individuals seeking to challenge decisions made by their local authority regarding a child's education or care.

Lucy Collins is a skilled advocate, and meticulously crafts appeal applications and accompanying documents that range from 4,000 to 14,000 words.

These documents are comprehensive, citing various sections of the SEND Code of Practice and relevant SEND legislation.

On average, the team at SEND Matters invests approximately 20-30 hours in constructing, reviewing and refining these documents.

Moreover, SEND Matters focuses on dispute resolution by engaging in robust negotiations supported by substantial evidence even before formal hearings occur. We specialize in assisting parents facing challenges such as refusals of school placements or assessments.

Fees

Package One

Tribunal application service £250

Send Matters will:

  • Complete SEND35 form - your tribunal application form.

  • Write ‘reasons for appeal’ supporting document to reinforce and strengthen your tribunal application. This document will include outlines of relevant law, review of the professional advice obtained in the needs assessment, review of the current and further recommended provision.

  • Produce a template email for you to send to the tribunal service.

    Any further support or case management after the email and application is submitted to the tribunal service there will be additional hourly rate and if your case is not concluded prior to tribunal date.

If you require SEND Matters to for tribunal hearing representation:

£175 for half a day and £275 for a full day. This includes representing you on the day of the tribunal and providing feedback following the tribunal hearing.

It is worth noting that very few clients have to go all the way to the hearing - we work with your local authority and other stakeholders to narrow and conclude the issues before the hearing.

Package Two (The Full Package)

This is all encompassing representation and case management throughout your appeal process.

All of package one’s services plus:

  • Hearing attendance

  • Case management of the appeal.

  • SEND Matters will review and consult with you on all correspondence about the tribunal.

  • SEND Matters will manage all tribunal communication on your behalf with school, Local Authority and any other professionals/experts.

  • Analyse/deep dive all relevant paperwork and case reports and where neccesary request and manage any further evidence or reports. 

  • Witness management.

  • All planning and preparation - client specific

  • SEND Matters are the point of contact to work with the LA on the ‘draft ehcp’ working document. This is a live document, that can be subject to multiple changes throughout the appeal process. This is time heavy part of case management and requires meticulous attention to detail to ensure the the best outcome for your case.

  • Post hearing consultation, next steps explained, including tribunal order once issued.

  • Final EHCP review including appeal conclusion. 

£725 (can be split into 2 monthly payments)