The Complete SEN Parent Toolkit
Version 1.0 | 2025
Essential Templates & Resources for Supporting Your Child's Special Educational Needs
How to Use This Toolkit
Navigate through this comprehensive toolkit designed to empower parents and carers in the UK SEN system.
Quick Start Guide:
- Find the right template - Use the contents to locate what you need
- Customise carefully - Replace all [bracketed] text with your information
- Keep records - Always save copies of everything you send
- Follow up - Use the suggested timelines to chase responses
- Stay strong - Remember, you are your child's best advocate
What's Included
Table of Contents
A Core Templates
- 1Requesting an EHCP Assessment
- 2Email to School Requesting SEN Support
- 3Request for EOTAS
- 4Meeting Preparation Checklist
- 5Complaints or Disagreements
B Advanced Templates
- 6Annual Review Preparation
- 7Tribunal Preparation
- 8Working with External Professionals
- 9Emergency and Crisis Templates
- 10Requesting Specific Therapies
C Financial & Transition
- 11Personal Budgets and Direct Payments
- 12Transition Planning Templates
D Home Support Toolkit
- 13Complete Home Support Resources
E Resources & Support
- 14Online Resources & Support Links
Template 1: Requesting an EHCP Assessment
Use this template to formally request an Education, Health and Care needs assessment from your local authority
Email Header
Child Information
Areas of Concern
I am writing to formally request an Education, Health and Care (EHC) needs assessment for my child as [he/she/they] has/have the following areas of concern:
📋 Information to Request
Please confirm receipt of this request within 5 working days and provide information about:
- • The assessment process and timeline
- • Any additional information or evidence you require
- • My rights and the next steps in this process
Your Details
Template 2: Email to School Requesting SEN Support
Request additional support for your child directly from their school
Email Header
Concerns Observed
I have noticed the following concerns:
📝 What I Would Appreciate
- • A meeting within the next two weeks to discuss support options
- • Information about what assessments or observations might be helpful
- • A written plan outlining any agreed support strategies
- • Regular updates on progress and review dates
Essential Resources & Support Links
Official Government & Legal
Legal Support & Advice
☎️ Helplines
- Family Lives: 0808 800 2222
- Contact Helpline: 0808 808 3555
- National Autistic Society: 0808 800 4104
- IPSEA Advice Line: 01799 582030
- SOS!SEN: 020 8538 3731
💡 Pro Tip
For local support, search for "[Your Council] Local Offer", contact SENDIASS, join your parent-carer forum, and look up specialist provisions near you.
Home Support Toolkit Preview
Visual Daily Schedule
| Time | Activity | Support | ✓ |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | Wake up | Sunrise picture | |
| 07:15 | Get dressed | Clothes laid out | |
| 07:45 | Breakfast | Choice board |
Zones of Regulation at Home
👗 Parent Self-Care Essentials
Quick Action Cards
🚨 Crisis Situation
School placement has broken down or child cannot attend
📋 Need Assessment
Request formal EHCP assessment from Local Authority
🏫 School Support
Request additional support directly from school
⚖️ Tribunal Appeal
Formal appeal to SEND Tribunal
🎯 Meeting Prep
Prepare effectively for SEN meetings
💰 Personal Budget
Request Personal Budget for EHCP provision
Key Deadlines & Timescales
EHCP Assessment Process
Appeal Deadlines
⏰ Important
Always keep records of when you send requests and chase responses if deadlines are missed. Late responses can be grounds for complaints or tribunal appeals.
📄 Complete Toolkit Available
This preview shows key templates from the complete SEN Parent Toolkit. The full version contains all 14 detailed templates, forms, and resources.