SEN tribunals

The Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal (SENDIST) is an independent body that hears parents appeals against LEA decisions on statutory assessments and statements.

You have to apply to the Tribunal no later than two months after the LEA tell you their decision.

The Tribunal board is made up of three people. One of these is the chairman, who will be a lawyer. At lease one of the other two will have experience of special educational needs.

You can go to the Tribunal on your own, or seek help from voluntary organisations or parent groups, who will help you to prepare your case and go with you. You can ask up to two people who know your child to speak for you at the tribunal.

The tribunal will look at the evidence and will make a final decision, which is binding.

You can ask your Local Education Authority for a special booklet about Tribunals.