SEND Talk

SENDIASS Manchester

Simple, easy-to-understand, jargon-free advice for parents and carers of children with Special Educational Needs and/or Disability or for young people navigating the world with SEND. Featuring those that live and breathe SEND support including experts from SENDIASS Manchester and parents who’ve been through the same hurdles you may be facing. Each episode, together with your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull they chat through some of the most common SEND support queries. We empower you to make the right & informed choices for you or your child. Further info: www.SENDIASSmanchester.org.uk

  1. How do I challenge a ‘refusal to assess’ decision?

    JAN 12

    How do I challenge a ‘refusal to assess’ decision?

    Is the local authority refusing to carry out an EHC needs assessment? In this episode of the SEND Talk podcast, your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull and SENDIASS adviser Laura Nardella explain what a refusal to assess decision means and what steps you can take if you want to challenge it. They cover why the decision letter is so important, how mediation works, and how the legal test for assessment is applied - breaking it down in plain English and using a practical example to show how it works in real life. You’ll find out: What a refusal to assess decision is and why the decision letter matters What your rights are, including key timescales and appeal deadlines How mediation works and when it’s required What the legal test for assessment actually means What evidence can help strengthen your case What to expect if you decide to appeal to the SEND Tribunal This episode is designed to help you understand the process clearly and feel more confident about your next steps. Do you have a question you’d like answered in a future episode of SEND Talk? Send your question and your name to: sendiass@manchester.gov.uk Talking points in this episode [00:00] Introduction to the SEND Talk Podcast [00:21] Overview of challenging a refusal to assess decision [01:50] Understanding the refusal to assess decision letter [03:13] Steps to take after receiving a refusal to assess decision [05:22] The importance of mediation [09:13] Preparing for mediation and tribunal [11:21] Explaining the legal test for assessment [14:44] Providing evidence for the legal test [18:58] Example scenario and practical tips [26:58] Final tips and resources [30:11] Conclusion and contact information RESOURCES & FURTHER INFORMATION Tribunal guide 42 'Appeals - Refusal to Assess' - https://www.iasmanchester.org/tribunals IPSEA ‘Refusal to Assess Appeals’ pack -  https://www.ipsea.org.uk/refusal-to-assess-appeals SEND 35a Form to use to appeal to the SEND Tribunal - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/form-send35a-special-educational-needs-and-disability-tribunal-appeal-a-refusal-to-secure-an-ehc-needs-assessment Video on how to complete the 35a form for Tribunals here (scroll down to see it) - https://www.iasmanchester.org/tribunals SENDIASS Manchester Visit the SENDIASS Manchester website for further information, support, factsheets and our contact details if you want to reach out.  Sendiassmanchester.org

    31 min
  2. How do I change my child’s school place: with and without an EHC plan?

    08/11/2025

    How do I change my child’s school place: with and without an EHC plan?

    Need to change your child’s school? Not sure where to start? In this episode of the SEND Talk podcast, your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull and SENDIASS adviser Laura Nardella explain exactly what to do if you want to change your child’s school place. Whether your child has an EHC plan, is going through an EHC needs assessment, or doesn’t have a plan at all, this episode covers the different processes involved, the steps to take, and what to expect along the way. You’ll find out: How to request to change your child’s school place when they don’t have an EHC plan How to request to change your child’s school place when they don’t have an EHC plan The process of changing school with an EHC plan (and why it’s not a quick fix) How to use the annual review to request a new school What to do if your child was told they’re “on the waiting list” for a specialist school When and how to appeal,  including what triggers your right to tribunal How to keep things moving when the process stalls If you’re feeling confused or stuck, this episode breaks things down clearly so you can take confident next steps, no matter what stage you’re at. Talking points in this episode [00:00] Introduction to the Send Talk Podcast [00:25] Overview of Changing School Places [02:15] Changing Schools Without an EHC Plan [06:32] Category Two Requests for Medical or Social Needs [07:13] Changing Schools During an EHC Needs Assessment [08:51] Changing Schools With an EHC Plan [11:45] Requesting Changes Through the Annual Review Process [21:29] Consultation Process and Next Steps [27:50] Managing Expectations and Final Tips [30:07] Conclusion and Contact Information RESOURCES & FURTHER INFORMATION Manchester City Council school admissions page: https://www.manchester.gov.uk/admissions  Category 2 requests page via Manchester City Council:  https://www.manchester.gov.uk/info/705/school_admissions/6440/secondary_schools_councils_admission_rules/2 SENDIASS Factsheet naming a school in Part I of an EHC plan: Read and download factsheet 48 from here:  https://www.iasmanchester.org/factsheets-new SENDIASS Tribunal guide to Part I appeals / placement appeals, Guide 44 , download here: https://www.iasmanchester.org/tribunals IPSEA website, case law on timescales to amend after annual review:  https://www.ipsea.org.uk/FAQs/annual-reviews-and-amending-ehc-plans  SENDIASS Manchester Visit the SENDIASS Manchester website for further information, support, factsheets and our contact details if you want to reach out.  Sendiassmanchester.org

    32 min
  3. What steps can I take to enforce my child’s EHC plan (Section F)?

    08/11/2025

    What steps can I take to enforce my child’s EHC plan (Section F)?

    Not getting the support promised in your child’s EHC plan? In this episode of the SEND Talk podcast, your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull and SENDIASS advisor Laura Nardella break down what to do if your child isn’t receiving the support listed in Section F of their Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan. If you’re unsure what should be in place, or feel stuck after multiple chats with school, this episode will help you take action. You’ll learn: What Section F actually is (and how it links to Section B) Why Section F must be specific to be enforceable What the law says about a local authority’s responsibility The steps to take if provision isn’t being delivered How to challenge vague wording and request updates to the plan Packed with examples, tips, and practical next steps, this episode gives you the tools to understand your rights and push for the support your child is entitled to. Talking points in this episode [00:00] Introduction to the Send Talk Podcast [00:28]Overview of Episode Topics [01:27] Understanding Section F of the EHC Plan [05:29] Legal Framework for Section F [09:21] Steps for Parents to Enforce the EHC Plan [14:10] Importance of Specificity in Section F [22:01] Addressing Common Issues and Final Advice [24:27] Conclusion and Contact Information RESOURCES & FURTHER INFORMATION IPSEA website – information on enforcing your EHC plan, section F: https://www.ipsea.org.uk/enforcing-your-ehc-plan-special-educational-provision-section-f  Letter to alert the LA that special educational provision is not being made: https://www.iasmanchester.org/modelletters  (The letter you want is number 6. “Complaining when special educational provision is not made”) Link to Manchester city council complaints - https://www.manchester.gov.uk/info/200025/complaints_comments_and_questions/7715/complaints_and_feedback/3  SENDIASS Tribunal Guide to Section B and F Appeals Guide 45: https://www.iasmanchester.org/tribunals  SEND Talk podcast episode: ‘Episode 3: What are the first steps to a SEND Tribunal?’ https://www.iasmanchester.org/podcasts#S2E3    SENDIASS Manchester Visit the SENDIASS Manchester website for further information, support, factsheets and our contact details if you want to reach out.  Sendiassmanchester.org

    27 min
  4. I disagree with the named school on my child’s EHC plan – how do I appeal it?

    02/19/2025

    I disagree with the named school on my child’s EHC plan – how do I appeal it?

    Did you know that you can appeal if you're unhappy with the named school in your child's EHC plan? In this episode of the SEND Talk podcast, your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull and SENDIASS adviser Laura Nardella guide you through the process of appealing the named school or college in your child's EHC plan.  This step-by-step guide covers where to start, the necessary information and forms, important deadlines, and more. By the end of this episode, you'll have a comprehensive overview of what to do if you're considering appealing the named school in your child's EHC plan. Talking points in this episode [00:00] Introduction to Part I appeals [02:30] Understanding the appeal process [05:15] Importance of a finalised EHC plan [08:40] What to do if you're outside the appeal window [12:00] Mediation and its relevance [15:10] Essential documents for lodging an appeal [20:45] How to fill in the SEND 35 form [30:20] Writing effective reasons for appeal [40:00] Gathering evidence to support your appeal [50:10] Final steps and submission of the appeal RESOURCES & FURTHER INFORMATION SENDIASS guidesAll the tribunal guides are here www.iasmanchester.org/tribunals  The guide to Part I appeals is called Guide 44: ‘Challenge to Part I appeals’.Guide 45 is Tribunal Guide to B & F appeals SENDIASS Fact sheets available on Factsheets or www.sendiassmanchester.org/factsheets-new See Fact sheet number 48: 'Naming a school or other educational institution in part I  of an EHC plan'  Other useful resources GOV.uk - SEND 35 form - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/form-send35-special-educational-needs-and-disability-tribunal-appeal   Legal aide checker: https://www.gov.uk/check-legal-aid  SENDIASS Manchester Visit the SENDIASS Manchester website for further information, support, factsheets and our contact details if you want to reach out.  Sendiassmanchester.org

    47 min
  5. Is my child eligible for home-to-school transport?

    12/19/2023

    Is my child eligible for home-to-school transport?

    Your child could qualify for support from the local authority in getting to and from school.     In this episode, your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull and SENDIASS adviser Laura Nardella look at the circumstances and eligibility criteria for home-to-school transport, including exploring the law, policy and statutory guidance around this and the application process.  This is part of our FAQ series, which focuses on the commonly asked questions we get asked here at SENDIASS. Talking points in this episode [00.00] Podcast and episode introduction [01:14] Introduce the question [02.04] First steps [03.12] Compulsory school age [06.32] Statutory walking distance [10.20] Application process [11.46] Approval [12.13] The transport solution [13.28] The appeals process [15.44] Other age groups [19.15] Outro with useful further information and contact details  ---- RESOURCES & FURTHER INFORMATION SENDIASS factsheets Factsheet 22: Home to school transport - go to iasmanchester.org/factsheets-new  Other useful resources - GOV.UK - Travel to school guidance for compulsory school-aged children gov.uk/government/publications/home-to-school-travel-and-transport-guidance  - Statutory guidance - Post-16 transport and travel support to education and training - https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/772913/Post16_transport_guidance.pdf - Manchester City Council - home to school transport page – including application link manchester.gov.uk/info/500132/special_educational_needs/1856/travel_assistance_for_pupils_with_special_educational_needs_and_disabilities_send - The Education Hub  -  Free school transport explained: From who’s eligible to how it works https://educationhub.blog.gov.uk/2023/11/03/free-school-transport-explained-eligible-free-travel - Free travel training in Manchester for 14-25-year-olds https://hsm.manchester.gov.uk/kb5/manchester/directory/service.page?id=1SLk9AoFRHc - Bee Network - Concessionary bus pass application page (Greater Manchester only) https://tfgm.com/tickets-and-passes/discounted-and-free-travel/disabled-people/travel-pass-for-disabled-people

    23 min
  6. How do I check my child’s draft EHC plan?

    12/19/2023

    How do I check my child’s draft EHC plan?

    Every child with an educational health care plan (EHC) will be sent a draft plan first. We know it’s a big document with lots of sections, so we’re here to help you check it. In this episode, your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull and SENDIASS adviser Laura Nardella take you through all the sections of a draft EHC plan, including where to start and lots of great advice to help you. Have your draft EHC plan in front of you and follow along! This is part of our FAQ series, which focuses on the commonly asked questions we get asked here at SENDIASS. Talking points in this episode [00.00] Podcast and episode introduction [01:15] Question introduction / the timings of draft plan [02.14] Where to start [04.27] Section A [05.03] Section B [08.13] Why Section B is important [10.08] Sections C and D [10.31] Section E [12.25] Section F [16.55] Why specificity in section F is important [22.13] Sections G and H [24.01] Sections J and K [25.12] Naming a preferred school [26.27] Outro with useful further information and contact details  RESOURCES & FURTHER INFORMATION SENDIASS factsheets Factsheet 1: Education Health and Care plans - go to iasmanchester.org/factsheets-new  Other useful resources IPSEA EHC checklist - https://www.ipsea.org.uk/what-an-ehc-plan-contains SENDIASS Manchester Visit the SENDIASS Manchester website for further information, support, factsheets and our contact details if you want to reach out.  sendiassmanchester.org

    28 min
  7. Can the school send my child home? (unofficial suspensions)

    12/19/2023

    Can the school send my child home? (unofficial suspensions)

    Has your child been sent home from school and are you unsure if it’s an official suspension?   In this episode, your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull and SENDIASS adviser Laura Nardella explain what constitutes an unofficial suspension or an official one, including definitions, the processes and your next steps as a parent.  This is part of our FAQ series, which focuses on the commonly asked questions we get asked here at SENDIASS. Talking points in this episode [00.00] Podcast and episode introduction [00:14] Question introduction [02.05] Is sending a child home allowed? [03.45] Officially recording and school processes [07.41] Does it matter if it’s an unofficial or official suspension?[09.06] What are the protections? [11.34] Additional considerations for SEND pupils [14.08] What if parents are okay with their child coming home? [16.07] Parent takeaway [17.34] Outro and links to further information RESOURCES & FURTHER INFORMATION SENDIASS factsheets Factsheet 9: Exclusions, suspensions and part-time timetables - go to iasmanchester.org/factsheets-new  Other useful resources - DFE guidance: School suspensions and permanent exclusions -gov.uk/government/publications/school-exclusion  SENDIASS Manchester Visit the SENDIASS Manchester website for further information, support, factsheets and our contact details if you want to reach out.  Sendiassmanchester.org

    18 min
  8. Do I want a personal budget (draft EHC plan)?

    12/19/2023

    Do I want a personal budget (draft EHC plan)?

    A draft EHC plan has a question that stumps lots of people - ‘Do you want a personal budget?’ In this episode, your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull and SENDIASS adviser Laura Nardella explain educational personal budgets as part of your draft EHC plan. This is part of our FAQ series, which focuses on the commonly asked questions we get asked here at SENDIASS. Talking points in this episode [00.00] Podcast and episode introduction [01:24] Question introduction introduction [01.38] When are we asked if we want a personal budget? [03.19] What do we mean by a personal budget with relation to education? [04.24] So why then does the local authority ask the question? [06.37] Outro and links to further information RESOURCES & FURTHER INFORMATION SENDIASS factsheets Factsheet 14: Personal Budgets - go to iasmanchester.org/factsheets-new  Other useful resources - Manchester City Council website: Personal budgets for SEN homepage -https://hsm.manchester.gov.uk/kb5/manchester/directory/advice.page?id=_gZy8TOzjDQ  - IPSEA website: Personal budgets and direct payments - https://www.ipsea.org.uk/personal-budgets-and-direct-payments  SENDIASS Manchester Visit the SENDIASS Manchester website for further information, support, factsheets and our contact details if you want to reach out.  sendiassmanchester.org

    8 min
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About

Simple, easy-to-understand, jargon-free advice for parents and carers of children with Special Educational Needs and/or Disability or for young people navigating the world with SEND. Featuring those that live and breathe SEND support including experts from SENDIASS Manchester and parents who’ve been through the same hurdles you may be facing. Each episode, together with your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull they chat through some of the most common SEND support queries. We empower you to make the right & informed choices for you or your child. Further info: www.SENDIASSmanchester.org.uk

Information

  • Creator
    SENDIASS Manchester
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    17
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © SENDIASS Manchester
  • Show Website
    SEND Talk

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