How should I prepare?

[Mrsmoneyworries]

I'm due to go to my first ever tribunal for my DS. Just waiting to get the details back from them regarding dates etc. Paperwork went in about 2 weeks ago.

How long is the wait?

What do I need to do to prepare?

I have mental health difficulties and was wondering if there's any help for me throughout the process or even available at the tribunal itself?

I have had help from ipsea but I have dyslexia. I guess there might be a charity able to help you.

I originally didn't feel I needed help but my last hearing was adjourned on the day and I had to read lots and prepair for the delayed hearing. I felt out of my depth then so asked.

Ipsea ideally want a £1000 donation. I don't have that so I need ( well don't have too but feel it's the right thing) to raise some money for them at some point.

Some parents don't need representing. I reality I'm representing but my volunteer helps quite a bit.

What stage of appeal are you at? It's a long process. Pace yourself.

If I could do this again I would choose my battles.

I'm just not with it very much and I know my anxiety etc will really kick in.

Got the date today. It's February next year.

However, there's also the confusion that what I'm possibly looking to achieve may be better suited to an EHCP. So there's been talk of me giving up the appeal and them starting the EHCP process straight away. I'm just waiting on a call from IASS - I'm not too convinced about them, however, I desperately need help.

How am I going to get updated reports/assessments when he's out of school?

They don't issue statements so you would be appealing for a ehcp?

You can get private reports ( very costly and I am not sure I would if your appealing just to be assessed).

I went to my first speak with one private report that cost £120.

Sorry, DS already has a statement.

We may be looking at a specific type of school or an EOTAS package.

DS has been out of school for a few months. He was unable to cope in a mainstream. LA have tried to put him in their only specialised setting attached to ms, but they only got as far as a few visits and attempted to push him, despite my warnings not to and he's anxiety etc is through the roof again.

He desperately hates standing out. He just wants to fit in and be able to be like your average child. He wants to be somewhere where they understand him. Would you class his feelings as a genuine 'need' that needs adding to his statement?