Author: admin

The school system is failing some of our most vulnerable children—those with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Unfortunately, many schools are still struggling with underfunding, outdated policies, and lack of adequate resources, resulting in an environment that negatively impacts these children’s mental health. In fact, the situation has become so dire that it’s contributing to conditions like PTSD in some students.

The Strain on Mental Health:

For children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), navigating school can feel like a constant battle. Many of these children require consistent support, tailored education, and safe spaces to thrive. However, due to underfunding, too many schools are unable to provide these resources. This leads to situations where children feel unsupported, isolated, or even traumatized.

The Effects of a Broken System:

The lack of specialized staff—such as trained SEN teachers, support workers, and mental health professionals—means that many children are not receiving the care and attention they need. This can result in feelings of insecurity, stress, and anxiety, which can escalate to more severe conditions like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). When children repeatedly face bullying, unmet needs, or disruption to their education, the psychological toll can be immense.

Furthermore, the outdated curriculum and rigid expectations often do not accommodate the individual learning needs of children with SEND. These children often face exclusion, whether it’s being removed from class, subjected to disciplinary actions, or simply falling behind. Without proper accommodations, this lack of support can have a devastating effect on their mental health.

A Need for Change:

The school system needs urgent reform. There’s an immediate need for increased funding, better-trained staff, and more comprehensive mental health services within schools. Children with SEND deserve the same opportunities to succeed as any other student—but they need the right resources and support to do so.

How AskEllie Can Help:

At AskEllie, we understand the toll the system is taking on families. We believe no child should suffer in silence or fall through the cracks. Through our free, AI-powered assistant, Ellie, we’re here to help parents navigate the complex landscape of EHCPs, SEND law, and mental health support.

Ellie can help parents better understand their rights, draft responses, and connect them with advocates, therapists, and educational experts. By making legal and support services more accessible, we aim to reduce the emotional and financial strain many parents feel while advocating for their children.

If you’re a parent struggling to navigate the SEND system, don’t do it alone. Ellie is here to help guide you through the complexities, giving you the tools and support you need to ensure your child receives the education and care they deserve.

It’s time for change. The system is broken, but together, we can make a difference.

🔗 Get started with Ellie today at www.askellie.co.uk.

The UK benefits system is undergoing changes in 2025, and for parents of disabled children, staying informed is crucial to ensure you receive the right support. Here’s what you need to know about Universal Credit (UC), Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Carer’s Allowance, and other key updates from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

1. Changes to Universal Credit for Parents of Disabled Children

If you receive Universal Credit (UC) and claim additional support for a disabled child, you should be aware of the following:
✅ Child Disability Additions – The additional support for parents of disabled children remains, but eligibility assessments are becoming stricter in 2025. More claimants may be asked to provide updated medical evidence.
✅ Mandatory Work Requirements – Some parents may be asked to engage with work coaches more frequently, even if they are caring for a disabled child. However, exemptions still apply if your child receives the highest rate of DLA (Care Component) or is deemed to have ‘severe limitations’.
✅ Transitional Protection & Migration from Legacy Benefits – Many families are still being moved from legacy benefits (such as Income Support or Tax Credits) to Universal Credit. Some may see changes in their payments, so it’s essential to check how your Disability Elements are being transferred.

2. Carer’s Allowance & New Earnings Thresholds

📌 The earnings threshold for Carer’s Allowance has been raised slightly, meaning some parents working part-time may now qualify where they didn’t before.
📌 However, there is no increase in Carer’s Allowance itself, despite inflation concerns.

3. Disability Benefit Reassessments – What Parents Need to Watch Out For

🏥 If your child receives DLA (Disability Living Allowance) or PIP (Personal Independence Payment) once they turn 16, you may notice:

• More frequent reassessments, even for conditions that will not improve over time.
• A focus on functional impact rather than diagnosis alone.

💡 Tip: If your child is due for reassessment, ensure you keep all medical letters and reports up to date to avoid disruptions in payments.

4. Changes to School Transport Funding

🚍 Many councils are struggling to fund SEND transport, with reports showing some areas are reducing services. Parents may be asked to contribute more financially or justify their child’s transport needs in more detail.

How AskEllie Can Help

With so many changes happening, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. AskEllie is here to help parents navigate these updates.
✅ Explain benefit changes in simple terms.
✅ Guide you on appeals if your child’s support is reduced.
✅ Assist with drafting letters for DWP, local authorities, and benefit reviews.
✅ Help you understand your legal rights when dealing with cuts to school transport or part-time education timetables.

💬 Try Ellie for free today! She’s available 24/7 to answer your questions on Universal Credit, EHCPs, and SEND law.

📲 Visit: www.AskEllie.co.uk
📩 Try our new Beta Telegram chatbot for instant support: https://t.me/AskEllieBot

If these changes affect you, share your experience below. Let’s make sure every family gets the support they’re entitled to! 👇💙

The Growing Issue of SEND Transport

In recent news, The Guardian highlighted the growing disparity in SEND transport funding across England, with local councils spending more on transporting children with special educational needs (SEND) than on improving local roads. According to the article, English councils are spending twice as much on SEND pupil transport as on road repairs, a situation that has raised significant concerns among parents, councils, and local authorities alike.

As the number of children requiring transport to specialist schools or therapies continues to increase, many local authorities are struggling to meet the rising demand, leaving families feeling burdened and uncertain. The article reveals that SEND transport costs have soared, creating a financial crisis that threatens the quality of care children receive and puts a strain on already overstretched public resources.

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The Impact on SEND Families

For many families, the rising cost of SEND pupil transport means they’re seeing fewer resources available for crucial services like specialist education, therapy support, and early intervention. Parents are feeling frustrated as they navigate complicated funding processes while trying to secure the necessary transport for their child’s education and well-being.

Here are some of the challenges families are facing:

• Financial strain: The increased spending on transport often leaves local authorities with limited funding for education, therapies, and other services that children with SEND urgently need.
• Inconsistent access: Some children face delays or uncertainty around transport availability, making it harder for them to attend specialist schools or therapies.
• Confusion about legal rights: Many families struggle to understand their rights when it comes to SEND transport entitlements and how to apply for support.

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How AskEllie Can Help Families in This Crisis

At AskEllie, we understand that navigating the complexities of SEND services, including transport entitlements and funding support, can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve built Ellie – your AI-powered legal assistant – to provide immediate, clear guidance on the issues that matter most to families dealing with the SEND transport crisis.

Here’s how AskEllie can help you in light of these new challenges:

✅ Clarify Your Rights: Ellie can help you understand your rights when it comes to SEND transport, explaining entitlements, eligibility, and what local authorities should be providing.

✅ Guidance on Applications: If you need help with the SEND transport application process, Ellie can guide you through what you need to include in your application, which documents are required, and how to make sure your request is processed efficiently.

✅ Help with Appeals: If your child’s SEND transport request has been denied or delayed, Ellie can assist in drafting appeal letters, explaining the reasons for appeal, and helping you navigate the process of contesting decisions.

✅ Connecting to Local Support Services: Ellie can also connect you with local advocacy groups and support services that can offer additional help, so you don’t have to navigate this crisis alone.

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The Bigger Picture: Addressing SEND Challenges

The issue highlighted in The Guardian article is just one part of the wider SEND crisis that families are facing across the UK. With SEND funding continuously squeezed, many families are left to manage these challenges without the proper support. As local authorities continue to struggle with budget allocations, parents are left wondering how they can get the help they need.

But there’s hope – AskEllie is here to provide support, guidance, and practical advice on SEND transport, EHCPs, legal rights, and other vital services. Our mission is to empower families with the tools and knowledge they need to get the support they deserve without the stress and confusion.

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Get Support Today

Whether you’re dealing with SEND transport issues, facing difficulties with EHCP applications, or just need some clarity on your legal rights, Ellie is here for you.

👉 Visit AskEllie for instant, free AI-powered support: www.askellie.co.uk

📱 Try the new Beta version on Telegram for 24/7 support: https://t.me/AskEllieBot

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At this crucial moment in the SEND landscape, AskEllie is a game-changer – offering families the support they need to navigate a complex system and ensure their children get the right transport and care they deserve.

Let us help you through these challenges, one step at a time. 💜

Big Changes on the Horizon for Benefits in the UK

The UK government is considering major welfare and benefits reforms that could impact thousands of families, particularly those with disabled children or additional needs. These proposed changes have sparked concern among parents, carers, and advocacy groups, as they could affect access to financial support, eligibility criteria, and application processes.

If you rely on benefits such as Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), or Carer’s Allowance, it’s crucial to stay informed and understand how these potential changes might affect your family.

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What Benefit Changes Are Being Proposed?

While specific details are still developing, here are some key proposed reforms that could impact families with SEND children:

🟢 Tougher Eligibility Criteria for PIP & Universal Credit

• The government is considering stricter assessments for disability-related benefits, with a focus on “those who could work” being encouraged off benefits.
• This has raised concerns about how children with SEND and their carers will be affected.

🟢 Changes to Carer’s Allowance

• The rules around Carer’s Allowance may be tightened to ensure only those providing high levels of care qualify.
• Many parents of SEND children depend on this financial support to cover additional costs.

🟢 Increased Reviews & Reassessments

• More frequent benefit reviews could mean shorter award lengths, making long-term financial planning difficult.

🟢 Push Towards Employment for Claimants

• More benefit claimants may be pushed into work, even those with disabilities or long-term conditions, raising questions about suitable job availability and support.

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How Could These Changes Affect Families with SEND Children?

💡 Reduced Financial Security – If eligibility becomes stricter, families may lose vital support or have to reapply more often.

💡 More Complicated Application Processes – If reassessments increase, parents may face additional stress proving their child’s needs repeatedly.

💡 Uncertainty About Future Support – With reforms still unclear, many families worry about how their financial situation might change.

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How Can AskEllie Help?

We know that navigating benefit applications, appeals, and policy changes can be overwhelming, especially when you’re already advocating for a child with additional needs.

Ellie is here to help you make sense of the system by:

✅ Explaining benefit rules in simple terms – No more confusing jargon! Ellie can break down what changes mean for your family.

✅ Helping you prepare for reassessments – If you’re asked to prove eligibility, Ellie can guide you through gathering supporting evidence and writing responses.

✅ Providing appeal guidance – If your benefits are reduced or denied, Ellie can offer advice on challenging decisions and writing appeal letters.

✅ Supporting you with EHCPs & legal rights – If benefit changes impact education or care funding, Ellie can provide information on your child’s legal entitlements.

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Stay Informed & Get Support

⚠️ Benefit reform discussions are ongoing – changes aren’t final yet, but it’s important to stay ahead of any decisions that could affect you.

💬 Have a question about benefits? Ask Ellie!

👉 Visit AskEllie for instant, free AI-powered support: www.askellie.co.uk

📱 Try the new Beta version on Telegram for 24/7 support: https://t.me/AskEllieBot

👥 Join the conversation – If you’re concerned about potential benefit reforms, connect with SEND advocacy groups, seek advice, and make your voice heard!

Ellie is here to help you navigate the changes ahead and make sure your family gets the support they deserve. 💜

The way parents access SEND legal advice and EHCP guidance is changing—fast. With more families struggling to navigate complex legal systems, AI-powered solutions like AskEllie are emerging as game-changers, offering instant, reliable, and free guidance at the click of a button.

🚀 Why AI is Critical for Parents Navigating the SEND System
For too long, parents have been forced to fight through bureaucracy alone. The EHCP process is confusing, appeals are complex, and waiting times for support are at an all-time high. AI tools like AskEllie are bridging the gap, helping parents understand their rights and take action—without the usual delays.

The Power of AI in SEND Advocacy

AI tools like AskEllie can:
✅ Instantly explain EHCPs, SEND law, and appeals in clear, simple language.
✅ Help draft letters and responses to schools and local authorities.
✅ Provide step-by-step guidance through legal processes.
✅ Reduce costs and time wasted on navigating the system alone.

Why AskEllie Stands Out

Unlike other online tools, AskEllie is:
🔹 Completely free for parents needing urgent help.
🔹 Trained on UK-specific SEND laws and legal guidance.
🔹 Available 24/7 via the website and now on Telegram (Try Ellie V2 here).
🔹 Actively growing, with new features in development, including document analysis and professional connections.

The Future of AI in SEND Support

AI is not replacing SEND lawyers, advocates, or professionals—it’s empowering parents with instant access to knowledge and tools to advocate for their children more effectively. As we continue to develop AskEllie, we’re looking to collaborate with organizations, charities, and legal professionals who share our vision of making justice more accessible.

💡 Want to see what AI can do for you? Try AskEllie today and experience the future of SEND support.

🔗 Get started now: www.askellie.co.uk
📱 Try Ellie on Telegram: https://t.me/AskEllieBot

In recent weeks, reports have highlighted the growing crisis in the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) system across England. Local councils are struggling to manage the rising costs of SEND services, particularly school transport, which now consumes twice the funding allocated for road maintenance in many areas. With the system at breaking point and new government reforms on the horizon, parents are more anxious than ever about securing the right support for their children.

A System on the Brink

The number of children requiring SEND transport has surged by 25% since 2019, leading to a financial strain that could see council deficits reach £5 billion by next year. In response, the government is preparing major reforms that could limit parental rights to appeal Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) decisions and reduce the powers of SEND tribunals. Many fear this will leave families with fewer options and less legal protection when fighting for their child’s education.

The Human Cost

Beyond the financial figures, this crisis is affecting real families every day. Parents who are already exhausted by the battles they face to secure EHCPs, school placements, and the right support now fear even greater obstacles. Some have had to leave jobs to home-school their children due to inadequate provision, adding to financial stress and mental health pressures.

How AskEllie Can Help

With the future of SEND services in flux, access to clear, immediate, and legally sound advice is more crucial than ever. This is where AskEllie steps in.

✅ Instant Guidance – Parents can get clear answers on SEND law, EHCPs, and appeals, without having to sift through confusing government documents.
✅ Drafting Support – Ellie can help parents create professional, legally structured responses to schools, councils, and tribunals.
✅ Simplified Legal Information – Ellie breaks down complex policies and legal jargon into easy-to-understand advice.
✅ 24/7 Access – No waiting lists, no unanswered emails—Ellie is always available when parents need her.
✅ New & Improved Version (V2) – Now available on Telegram, offering even faster responses and deeper integration with key legal sources.

As the government prepares to make changes that could limit SEND support, parents need to be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to advocate for their children effectively. AskEllie is designed to empower families with the tools they need to navigate an increasingly challenging system.

Be Prepared. Stay Informed. Get Support.

The months ahead could bring significant challenges, but parents don’t have to face them alone. AskEllie is here to help.

💻 Try Ellie on our website: www.askellie.co.uk
📱 Get instant support on Telegram (Beta V2): https://t.me/AskEllieBot

If you’re a parent navigating the SEND system, now is the time to take action. Join the thousands of families using AskEllie to fight for their children’s education and future.

The UK government is considering major changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP), a vital benefit supporting disabled people and those with long-term health conditions. Recent discussions have sparked concerns about eligibility changes, new assessments, and even potential cuts to financial support. Many families are now worried about how these reforms could impact them.

What’s Changing with PIP?

According to recent reports, the government is reviewing the way PIP is assessed, aiming to reduce the number of people receiving cash payments and potentially replace some financial support with vouchers or services instead. While no final decisions have been made, the debate is ongoing, and any changes could have huge implications for disabled individuals and their families.

Concerns raised in the media include:
🔴 Stricter eligibility criteria, which could make it harder for some people to qualify for PIP.
🔴 Replacing cash payments with vouchers, limiting flexibility for recipients.
🔴 Increased assessment scrutiny, potentially leading to more refusals or stressful reassessments.

How AskEllie Can Help

With uncertainty around these changes, understanding your legal rights has never been more important. This is where AskEllie steps in.

✅ Instant AI Guidance – AskEllie provides free, accessible legal guidance on PIP eligibility, appeals, and entitlements.
✅ Support for PIP Appeals – If you’re denied PIP or reassessed unfairly, Ellie can guide you through the appeals process, step by step.
✅ Clear Explanations of Legal Jargon – Confused by government documents? Ellie can break them down into simple, easy-to-understand terms.
✅ Everyday Advice on Managing Support – Whether it’s navigating benefits, SEND law, or accessing the right services, Ellie is available 24/7.

Try Ellie Now – Free Legal Support When You Need It

With the future of PIP uncertain, now is the time to understand your rights and prepare for possible changes.

🔗 Chat with Ellie now on our website: www.askellie.co.uk
📱 Try our NEW Beta on Telegram for instant support: https://t.me/AskEllieBot

Ellie is here to help families feel informed, supported, and empowered—especially when navigating complex changes like PIP reform. Don’t face this alone—Ellie is here for you. 💜

The UK government is proposing significant reforms to Personal Independence Payment (PIP), sparking confusion and concern for thousands of families who rely on this vital support. If you’re worried about how these changes might affect you—or if you’re facing a PIP reassessment or appeal—you don’t have to navigate it alone.

What Are the New PIP Reforms?

The government is reviewing how PIP is assessed and delivered, with proposals that could:
🔴 Make it harder to qualify for PIP support.
🔴 Reduce or replace cash payments with vouchers or alternative services.
🔴 Increase scrutiny on assessments, leading to more refusals.

Many disabled individuals and their families fear these changes could limit financial independence and increase the difficulty of securing much-needed support.

How AskEllie Can Help—For Free

Ellie is a free AI-powered legal assistant designed to help people understand their rights and navigate the complicated world of PIP applications, reassessments, and appeals.

✅ Instant Answers – Get clear, easy-to-understand explanations about your eligibility and entitlements.
✅ PIP Appeal Guidance – Step-by-step help if your claim is refused or reduced.
✅ Break Down Legal Jargon – Confused by complicated decision letters? Ellie can simplify them for you.
✅ SEND & Benefits Support – Need help beyond PIP? Ellie also provides guidance on EHCPs, carers’ rights, and other disability benefits.

Get Help Now – It’s Completely Free!

📌 Chat with Ellie directly on our website: www.askellie.co.uk
📌 Try the new Beta version on Telegram for instant support: https://t.me/AskEllieBot

As these PIP changes unfold, you don’t have to struggle alone. Ellie is here to help you understand your rights, take action, and fight for the support you deserve. 💜

Understanding the Tribunal Process

If your child has been denied an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) or a suitable school placement, you may need to appeal through the First-tier Tribunal (SENDIST). This process can feel overwhelming, but preparation is key to achieving a successful outcome.

With increasing pressure on SEND services and school placements in 2025, it’s more important than ever to build a strong case, understand your rights, and prepare effectively.

Key Steps to Prepare for a Tribunal

1. Understand the Deadlines

• You must submit your appeal within two months of the decision letter from your local authority (LA) or one month after receiving a mediation certificate—whichever is later.
• If you are appealing a school placement decision, this typically follows an EHCP finalisation.

2. Gather Strong Evidence

To strengthen your case, collect: ✅ Professional Reports – Private and NHS assessments (e.g., Educational Psychologist, Speech and Language, Occupational Therapy)
✅ School Reports – Any evidence from teachers or SENCOs highlighting your child’s needs
✅ Medical Documentation – GP or consultant letters confirming diagnoses and additional support requirements
✅ Parent and Pupil Statements – A detailed account of how your child’s needs are (or are not) being met in their current setting

💡 Tip: If you believe your child’s current school is unsuitable, gather behaviour logs, exclusions, and progress reports showing unmet needs.

3. Consider Mediation

Before submitting an appeal, you must attempt mediation unless you are only appealing a school placement.

• Mediation can lead to a resolution without going to Tribunal.
• You’ll receive a mediation certificate, even if you choose not to proceed with the session.

4. Prepare Your Tribunal Bundle

• You will need to submit all your documents to the Tribunal Service before the deadline.
• You’ll receive a hearing date, usually within 12-14 weeks of submitting your appeal.
• Be ready to present your case and answer questions from a panel of legal and education experts.

5. Know What to Expect at the Hearing

• Remote or in-person hearings: Most are now conducted remotely via video call.
• Structure of the hearing: 1️⃣ The judge will introduce the case.
  2️⃣ You (or your representative) will explain why you are appealing.
  3️⃣ The LA will respond with their arguments.
  4️⃣ Witnesses (such as experts or school staff) may give evidence.
  5️⃣ The panel asks questions and makes a final decision (which may take up to 10 working days).

6. Get Support & Legal Help

You don’t need a lawyer, but specialist SEND legal advice can make a huge difference.
✔ Charities & Free Legal Advice:

• IPSEA (www.ipsea.org.uk)
• SOS! SEN (www.sossen.org.uk)
• SENDIASS (Local independent services)

✔ Specialist SEND Solicitors:
If you want formal representation, you can hire a solicitor with experience in SEND Tribunal cases.

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How AskEllie Can Help You Win Your Tribunal

Ellie is a free AI-powered assistant that simplifies legal guidance for parents.

🔹 Get clear, step-by-step advice on preparing your appeal.
🔹 Draft letters & responses to the local authority.
🔹 Understand Tribunal procedures without complex legal jargon.
🔹 Find relevant laws and regulations quickly.
🔹 24/7 access—whenever you need support.

With Ellie V2 now available on Telegram, you can get instant help on your phone, anytime. Try it here:
📲 https://t.me/AskEllieBot

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Final Thoughts

Appealing an EHCP or school placement decision can be daunting, but preparation, evidence, and the right support can significantly improve your chances of success.

🚀 You are not alone—Ellie and specialist SEND organisations are here to help you fight for your child’s rights.

💜 Try Ellie now at www.askellie.co.uk to start preparing for your Tribunal today!

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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! 💜🚀