Going the extra mile
Supporting a child with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) can sometimes feel overwhelming – especially when you’re also managing the challenges of separation or divorce. Many parents find the SEND system complex and confusing, with different processes, professionals and terminology to understand. It isn’t always clear what support your child should receive, how to work with the school or Local Authority, or what steps to take if you don’t agree with the decisions being made.
At Bath Family Law we guide parents through the process with clarity, calm and care – helping families make sense of the SEND system and keeping your child’s needs at the forefront of any arrangements and agreements. We can support you to understand your rights, prepare evidence, fill out paperwork, appeal decisions, advocate for you at meetings and make sure nothing slips through the cracks.
Our support for separating parents includes expert advice on EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) applications and reviews, SEND Plan and IEP (Individualised Education Plan) support, disability benefit applications, school transport and Blue Badges. We know every breakup and every child is unique, so our guidance is fully personalised to your family’s needs and circumstances.
Kelly has taken a weight off our shoulders and allowed us to focus on parenting our child rather than parenting the process.
Mr G
Frequently asked questions
Separation and divorce can be especially challenging when you have a child with special educational needs (such as dyslexia, ADHD, autism, speech and language difficulties, or physical disabilities). SEND can also impact the practicalities of agreeing Child Arrangements with your former partner – including school placement, routines, and specialist support.
Our SEND service is an added layer of support for families going through separation. We make sure that whilst the legal and practical matters of a breakup are handled, children’s SEND needs are not forgotten.
Yes. Unless a court order says otherwise, both adults with parental responsibility should be involved in all education and SEND decisions. If you disagree with your former partner, Bath Family Law can help parents resolve disputes and keep the focus on your child’s needs moving forward.
No. Support is based on need, not just diagnosis. Schools have a duty to help children who are struggling, regardless of whether a formal assessment has taken place. SEN support can include interventions, small-group work, targeted teaching strategies, or reasonable adjustments in class.
No – many children receive SEN Support directly through their school. An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is usually only considered when needs are more complex and require additional funding or resources. It’s a legally binding document which describes a child’s specific requirements and sets out the tailored support necessary from various services to help them progress in education and life. Every EHCP must be reviewed at least once a year to check the plan is still appropriate and to make any necessary adjustments.
If you need to apply for an EHCP you can request an assessment from the Local Authority. Bath Family Law can support you in preparing the application and gathering evidence.
You have the right to appeal. Many parents are successful on appeal, particularly when the process is well prepared and evidence is clear.
Bath Family Law are experts at navigating the SEND system. Our friendly team can help ensure your child’s needs are properly represented – even in the midst of family changes.
SEN support should be reviewed routinely, usually every term, and parents should be updated on progress and planning the next steps. You have the right to attend regular meetings with the school and/or Local Authority (with an advocate or supporter if you wish) to ask questions and contribute to decisions.
If you have any concerns, you should raise them with the school’s SENCo, headteacher, or Local Authority. We can guide you on the best way to approach this and what formal steps are available if issues remain unresolved.
