Free
FREE SEND LAW Q&A
Practical information - Your questions answered.
Join solicitor Tom Emmett (Solicitor, Partner and Head of Schools, Colleges and Universities at Geldards LLP) for three free online Q&A sessions for parents and carers of children and young people with SEND in Essex & Southend. Get clear, practical information about SEND law, your rights and have your questions answered.
Attend 1, 2 or all 3 sessions!
Team members from MyOTAS, SEND the Right Message and SAFE will also be present at each of the Q&As to support you.
GENERAL INFORMATION AND SIGNPOSTING ONLY. These sessions cannot provide
individual legal advice or casework
SESSION 1
EHCPs: Assessments, Refusals & Appeals
Can the local authority refuse to carry out an EHC needs assessment?
What can I do if an EHCP is refused or I disagree with the decision?
What are my rights if I disagree with what’s written in my child’s EHCP?
Book separately for:
SESSION 2 - 9th November 2026 from 7-8.30pm
School Attendance, Section 19, Alternative Provision & EOTAS
What are the school and local authority’s responsibilities when my child cannot attend
because their needs aren’t being met?
Can I be fined or prosecuted when my child’s SEND is affecting their ability to attend?
What is the local authority’s duty under Section 19, and how is this different from EOTAS?
Book separately for:
SESSION 3 - 23rd November 2026 from 7-8.30pm
Getting the Provision Your Child Needs
What reasonable adjustments is a school legally required to make?
Who is responsible for making sure the provision in my child’s EHCP is actually delivered?
What can I do if the school or local authority says they don’t have the resources to provide the support my child needs?