Resources for parents and carers
Navigating the SEND system is hard work. These resources won’t fix the system but they will help you feel more prepared, more informed, and less alone in it. All downloads are free. No sign-up required.
Understanding the system
Who Does What in SEND A plain-language overview of the key stages in the SEND system and who is responsible for what at each one. Use it as a reference when you’re trying to work out who to speak to and what they should be doing.
Getting support at school
Does My Child Need a Diagnosis to Get Support at School? One of the most commonly searched questions by parents and one of the most misunderstood areas of the system. This short explainer sets out what the law actually says, and what you can ask for right now.
Questions to Ask Your School About SEN Support A checklist you can bring to any school meeting or use to prepare questions in advance. You don’t need to ask all of them at once, simply use the ones most relevant to where you are right now.
Managing the paperwork and the people
My Child at a Glance A one-page template you can fill in and share with any professional working with your child so you never have to start from scratch in a new appointment. Include their needs, current support, key contacts, and what’s been tried.
SEND Records Organiser A structured log for meetings, reports, correspondence, and agreed next steps. Print it out and add to it as you go, or save it as a Word document and type directly into it.
Email Templates for Writing to Your Child’s School Four ready-to-use email templates covering the most common situations: requesting a meeting, following up on agreed actions, asking about SEN Support, and raising a concern in writing.
Looking after yourself
Parent Carer Wellbeing — Support and Signposting The emotional load of navigating SEND on behalf of your child is significant. This resource brings together organisations and support that exist specifically for parent carers so you know where to turn when you need it.
The SEND language
SEND Glossary — Plain-Language Definitions The SEND system has its own terminology and acronyms. This glossary explains the terms you’re most likely to encounter, from EHCP and SEN Support to SENDIAS and the SEND Tribunal, in plain language, without jargon.