Information and Advice Service
Our information and advice service ensures parents of children with additional learning needs (0 -25) have access to independent information, advice and support so they can make, informed decisions.
We aim to give people:
- the skills to confidently share their views, explore all options, make decisions and develop good relationships with professionals
- the knowledge needed to understand their rights and take whatever action needed to resolve issues in the best interest of the child or young person.
Our service is:
- Impartial – we don’t take sides, we give information which is based on the law to help you choose and make decisions.
- Confidential – we don’t share your information unless you say we can
- Free – there’s no charge.
We give information, advice and support for all ALN issues at every stage of a child’s education and about any issue. If you think your child may have ALN, but they don’t have a diagnosis, we’re here to support you too.
The service provides up-to-date information on the following:
- Your child/young person’s rights
- Your rights and opportunities to participate
- The duties of schools or colleges towards children/ young people and their parents
- Local authorities’ duties towards children/young people with special educational needs and/or disability and Additional learning Needs (ALN) and their parents
- Where you can find extra help and advice
- What you can do if you disagree
Sometimes information alone is not enough. You may want casework support.
We can:
- Listen to, and help you to, voice your views and concerns
- Work with you to explore your options
- Help you to understand your family’s rights in relation to ALN
- Help you prepare for and if possible attend meetings with you
- Understand reports, letters, processes and support you to write letters and express your views
- Support you with assessments and IDP’s
- Help you to resolve issues and find solutions
- Provide advice and support if you can’t agree
- Make representations on your behalf