Idiots guide to SENDIST tribunal?

[2006hildy]

Is there such a thing? Can you give me some links to follow?

Are there any template letter guides? Especially in the world of ASD.

I have just applied for Statutory Assessment, which was turned down last time we applied, so this time prepared to appeal. I know there are strict time limits so I am reading all about it now, preparing myself.

Our LEA has a reputation of being slippery so I need all the help I can get apart from all the usual charities.

The usual charities may well be your best bet. I think SOS SEN sometimes runs courses on SENDIST preparation.

Here, look at this link to Fiona Slomovic's website advocacyandmediation.squarespace.com/specialist-areas/

I too have to say that SOS!SEN is fantastic a little difficult to reach on the phone especially @ half term as they are all voulnters but do know they do workshops on statements & tribunals.

Also I have downloaded material from ISPEA & ACE though it is mainly about getting the statement right. Read up as much a possible this whole process is very long and minefield.

I have a statement but I'm appealing against pts,3 & 4 & will be going to tribunal.

I would also see if there were any support groups in your area that help parents of children with SEN so you could meet other parents in your situation.

Not sure what else to suggest but maybe somewhere will have more ideas.

IPSEA are now doing parent courses.

There's a book called getting started with statements by Tanya tirraoro which is a quick and useful read.

Fantastic I am feeling positive now.

I have just found IPSEA's - Refusal to Assess Pack.- Brilliant

I may have to do a parent course.

This made interesting reading:

"Nearly half of parents represent themselves at the hearing. The Tribunal?s
annual report 2006/07 shows that 23 per cent had legal representation while
29 per cent were represented by another representative. Ten per cent of local
authorities use legal representation. You will be heartened to know that a
majority of parents ? 62% ? won their appeal against refusal to assess in
2006/07, and in IPSEA?s experience many find their LA gives in before the
hearing. Tribunal chairs say that parents are often good advocates for their
child and their evidence can be crucial in deciding a case in their favour."