SEND EHCP form for children with disabilities Post Reply

[kristy.drew]

My son has cerebral palsy right side hemi age 4. In the EHCP process to apply for a helper/school admission. Help, who is the most kick ass person at Lambeth council in send team who will ensure our form even makes it onto the system. Called today, having sent the form 5 weeks ago - ah sorry we can’t seem to find the form.. arrrrrragh need wine

Any other CP mums out there that can shed light on schools/this process?
Kristy

[Bbkl]

I'm not a CP mum, but I am a Lambeth parent with long experience of the SEN team. Am I right in thinking you are applying for a reception start in 2020? 
If your son is currently in an early years setting they should be able to apply on your/your sons' behalf for an EHCP needs assessment.  That can help with the process (although I did a parental application myself, it seems school ones get treated as more 'official').

There is no 'kick ass' person in the SEND team as they are all massively overstretched, but the IASS service (Chris White cwhite@lambeth.gov.uk) can help you navigate the system. Lambeth Parent Forum and Family Action can both give you advice and support that can help you through the process and information about drop ins with the SEND team where you can get direct access to a member of the team and that often helps push things along. 

If you sent in your application for an EHCP needs assessment via email, resend it, point out the date that you originally sent it and politely remind them of the six week statutory deadline for them to make a decision whether or not to assess. Sounding like you know the law often helps.

[kristy.drew]

Bbkl thank you, so fast in responding! Love this group

Yes early reception 2020. Have sent the form from his nursery yes, but we filled it out.

Thanks for chris’ details and the tip about 6 week statutory. Most helpful to know.

As a Lambeth mum have you/do you know if of any schools that deal particularly well with children with special needs? Our son is lucky in that he can walk and talk but will need additional support at school/anything that requires 2 hands.

[Bbkl]

It depends whereabouts in the borough you are. At primary age I really would advise staying local if you can - you can pm if you like and I can share the info I have if it's relevant to you.