HE and Special Educational Needs - 3
Can I still get therapy for my child?
If you child was receiving SALT, occupational therapy or physiotherapy, the LA may or may not still provide it. If they don't, then you can ask for therapy to be arranged though your GP.
Can I refuse the review of the Statement?
No. It is mandatory that a Statement is reviewed annually by the LA. You do not have to attend, but should be aware that the review may still go ahead without you present. There is nothing in law to say that you have to provide a report, but you would be advised to give the LA enough information to establish that your child’s special needs are being met.
How can I prevent further reviews which I consider intrusive?
You can ask in writing for the Statement of Special Needs to cease to be maintained. However the LA do not have to agree to this.
The LA are refusing to cease the Statement. Is this legal?
It can be considered a waste of taxpayer money maintaining a Statement which is not legally enforceable, but it is not illegal for them to maintain it despite a parental request to cease it.
It has been known for a LA to continue with the Statement to allow them a mandatory meeting with an HE family who they consider might otherwise refuse to meet with them since a visit (for home education) is not a compulsory option of the LA.
What will the review involve?
Normally it involves checking that the child is receiving an education which caters for the special needs of that child. the meeting may take place at a neutral venue, or a school, or may involve someone from the SEN team coming on a home visit with the EHE officer. Sometimes it can be a paper review. As the child's main educator you will have to supply information about your child's education. Although some parents choose to attend the meeting, neither they nor the children have to attend. However, if no information is given to the LA it could be perceived that no education is being provided so if a parent chooses not to attend then it is best to provide evidence in some other way that satisfies the LA.