Navigating the SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) system can be incredibly challenging for parents. Whether you’re trying to secure an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan), appeal a decision, or understand your child’s legal rights, accessing free legal advice can be a game-changer.
Many parents don’t realize that help is available—without the high legal fees. In this post, we’ll outline the best places to get free legal support for SEN and how AskEllie can help you through the process.
1. IPSEA (Independent Provider of Special Education Advice)
📌 Best for: EHCP appeals, SEND Tribunal cases, and legal rights under education law.
IPSEA is one of the leading SEND legal charities in the UK. They offer:
✅ Free online guides on EHCPs, exclusions, and SEN law.
✅ A helpline service where you can speak to a trained legal advisor.
✅ Tribunal Support for parents appealing LA decisions.
How to access: Visit their website and book a free legal call.
2. SOS! SEN
📌 Best for: One-on-one guidance, legal workshops, and independent SEN case support.
SOS! SEN provides affordable and free services, including:
✅ Helpline support for parents facing EHCP issues.
✅ In-person and online workshops to understand SEND law.
✅ Independent tribunal support at lower costs than private solicitors.
How to access: Call their helpline or attend a workshop.
3. SENDIASS (Special Educational Needs and Disability Information, Advice, and Support Services)
📌 Best for: Local, impartial advice for parents dealing with school or EHCP issues.
Every council in England provides SENDIASS, a free advisory service that helps parents:
✅ Understand their rights under SEND law.
✅ Challenge school or council decisions regarding SEN support.
✅ Get local mediation support before tribunal appeals.
How to access: Find your local SENDIASS via this directory.
4. Law Centres & Pro Bono Legal Clinics
📌 Best for: Free legal representation and case-specific advice.
Many law centres and universities offer pro bono legal services for SEND cases, including:
✅ Free EHCP and tribunal advice from law students under solicitor supervision.
✅ Face-to-face legal support for complex cases.
How to access: Search for your local law centre via LawWorks or check nearby university legal clinics.
5. Citizen’s Advice
📌 Best for: Initial legal guidance and mediation support.
Citizen’s Advice offers:
✅ Basic legal guidance on education law.
✅ Help with formal complaints to local authorities.
✅ Advice on discrimination and school exclusions.
How to access: Visit your nearest Citizen’s Advice Bureau (CAB) or use their online chat service.
6. AskEllie – Your Free AI-Powered SEND Legal Assistant
If you need instant, free guidance, AskEllie is here to help!
🔹 AskEllie.co.uk is an AI-powered legal assistant designed to support parents 24/7.
🔹 Get clear, reliable answers on EHCPs, appeals, school rights, and more.
🔹 No waiting lists, no high legal fees—just instant support at your fingertips.
📌 Try AskEllie now: www.askellie.co.uk
If you’re fighting for your child’s rights, you don’t have to do it alone. These free legal resources can help you navigate the SEND system with confidence! 💜🚀
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