Statutory assessment refusal

[anonandlikeit]

My friends child has been refusede statutory assessment... The letter said

After considering all the evidence provided the panel decided that X educational needs do not meet the criteria for Statutory assessment.
The panel decided that X would be referred to an Educational Psychologist for a further report.

Is this normal? they have refused assessment but referred for report from Ed Psych??

My friend is going to appeal but not sure how she should play it?? Is it normal for them to feel the ed psych is needed but not meet criteria???

Any thoughts or advice greatfully recieved.
Thanks

Perhaps he'she is borderline, but they have to reply within deadline, (so they are refusing on current evidence), but are getting a further report to clarify his/her needs so that they can see if he/she does need statutory assessment?

good point lou, maybe.
She is going to ring Monday for clarification but is very cautious about what she says.

Is there a reconsider type process or is it just stright to appeal?

they should have offered her a meeting to explain their reasons, if not she could ask for one. We got turned down and appealed and they backed down, we finally got to see an ed psych after a lot of hassle and he said DS was exactly the type of child who needed a statement at 3. However that has not stopped them ignoring his recommendations in the statement they have given us. Tell her to look at the refusal to assess appeal pack on IPSEA website

Very unusual as the ed Pysch is on of those who is asked to provide a report so the LA can consider whether a Statement is required.

If they've already had the Ed Pysch's report during the Statement process why refer her for another one? That in itself would appear to be grounds for appeal - they based their decision on incomplete information.

She shoudl appeal - she will almost certainly win a refusal to assess appeal.

Ooops! Sorry. I can see I got it wrong and she was turned down at the first hurdle.

Same appplies - appeal.

Thank you for your info.
As I understand it, the parent requested stat assessment, supporting reports from Paed, clinical Psych, school, OT & SALT all supporting the request for assessment.
The clinical psych was going to refer for ed psych assessment some months back but it was decided to leave it as it would be done as part of the stat assess process. I don't think anyone thought for one moment that the child would not be assessed.
In all honestly the child cannot cope without adult support.

Thanks again, sounds like she may have a little battle on her hands.