SEND
Mediation

Supporting People in Special Educational Needs and Disabilitites Conflict

What is
SEND Mediation?

SEND mediation is a voluntary process that involves a neutral third party, known as a mediator, helping parties involved in a dispute related to Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) reach an agreement. This process is mandated by the Children & Families Act 2014 and Special Educational Needs and Disability Regulations 2014.

The main goal of SEND mediation is to find mutually agreeable solutions for all parties involved, including parents, local authorities, health or care providers, schools, and other professionals. It aims to resolve disputes without resorting to costly and lengthy legal battles.

Why Choose Us For Your SEND Mediation?

Expertise in SEND Conflict Resolution
Our mediator, Jess Wheat, brings years of experience in handling SEND based disputes, ensuring a balanced and thorough approach to every situation.

Customised Solutions for Lasting Relationships
We focus on preserving your personal relationships and fostering mutual understanding, crafting solutions that work for all parties involved.

Cost-Effective and Efficient
Avoid the high costs and lengthy processes associated with traditional litigation. Mediation is a faster, more affordable way to resolve disputes.

Mediation is a form of dispute resolution that empowers you to make decisions and agree your outcomes. We will tailor your service to your specific needs.

How SEND Mediation Works With Us

Begin with a free call to discuss your needs and to assess whether your matter is suitable for mediation.

Initial Assessment

Once the mediation session has concluded, everything will be written down and if additional support is needed, we can arrange further sessions.

Resolution and Follow-Up

We will work with each person involved to help you agree outcomes that work for you.

The Mediation

We will work with you to fully understand the issues and ensure that you are ready to engage with mediation.

Individual Sessions

Resolve SEND Conflicts with Confidence

Conflict is inevitable but it's how you deal with it that matters. Working with us, you will have full support to find a solution that lasts.

Let's Talk

Mediation Success: SENCO Decision Appeal

The parents of a student undergoing an SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disability) process disputed the assessment given by the school's SENCO (Special Educational Need Coordinator). This disagreement led to an appeal and the need for mediation to come to a resolution.

Key Issues

Assessment Disagreement: Parents disagreed with the SENCO's assessment, believing it did not accurately reflect their child's needs.

SENCO Decisions: Parents were dissatisfied with the SENCO's decision, which they felt was not in the best interest of their child.

Mediation Process

Through structured and facilitated discussions, the parents and the SENCO were able to explore options for resolving the dispute. Mediation was instrumental in guiding the conversations towards constructive outcomes.

Resolution

The mediation resulted in the following agreements:

Re-Assessment: An independent professional will be engaged to conduct a fresh assessment. If the assessment differs significantly from the initial determination, the SENCO agreed to modify the plan accordingly.
Process Revision: The SENCO committed to involving the parents more closely in future decisions and assessments, ensuring their concerns are heard and taken into account.
Communication Protocol: The parents and SENCO agreed to maintain an open line of communication in the future to address any arising concerns before they escalate.

Lessons Learned

Effective Communication: Clear communication and active listening played a key role in reaching a mutual understanding and agreement.
Role of Neutral Parties: The mediator's unbiased perspective significantly facilitated the resolution process, ensuring discussions focused on the child's best interest.
Detailed Planning: Establishing a concrete plan with specific actions and timelines ensured that all parties adhered to the agreements.
Professional Advice: The decision to hire an independent professional pointed to the importance of seeking objective information to clarify disputes.
Collaborative Solutions: The involvement in crafting the resolution fostered a sense of ownership over the agreement, increasing the likelihood of adherence.