Useful links
If you think that your child may have special educational needs, or the support that he or she is currently receiving does not meet his or her needs, the following organisations may offer guidance, support and publications on how to proceed. Please note that Woodcroft is not liable for the contents of external websites, nor does it endorse the services, organisations or websites listed.
Directgov
Directgov is a government website that brings together public service information. The above link will take you directly to the Parents section. It gives an overview of the step by step approach to identifying and addressing children's special educational needs and offers useful links to other sources of information and advice.
Department for Education - SEN questions and answers
Popular questions about issues affecting parents and carers of children with special educational needs, including guidance about statementing.
Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal (SENDIST)
Parents whose children have special educational needs can appeal to the Special Needs and Disability Tribunal against decisions made by local authorities in England about their children's education.
Helpline: 01325 392760.
National Parent Partnership Network (NPPN)
The NPPN supports the work of local parent partnership services throughout England. Parent partnership services can be found in every local authority in England. They provide information, advice and support to parents and carers of children with special educational needs. Telephone: 020 7843 6058.
Advisory Centre for Education (ACE)
ACE are a national independent registered charity offering free advice for parents. Freephone advice line: 0808 800 5793 (Monday to Thursday 10am to 1pm).
Independent Panel for Special Education Advice (IPSEA)
IPSEA give free and independent legal advice and support in England and Wales. Freephone helpline: 0800 018 4016. Their Tribunal Helpline gives next-step advice on SEN appeals and disability discrimination claims to the Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal. Tribunal Helpline: 0845 602 9579. Check website for helpline opening hours.
Network 81
Network 81 is a national network of parents working towards properly resourced inclusive education for children with special educational needs. They have a national helpline offering advice on all matters relating to special educational needs. Helpline: 0845 077 4055 (Monday to Friday 10am to 1pm).
National Autistic Society (NAS)
Woodcroft's provision is accredited by NAS. They also provide individuals with autism and their families with help, support and services. The website includes information about autism, asperger syndrome and NAS services and activities. Freephone helpline: 0808 800 4104 Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm.
Autism Services Directory
This is a direct link to the Autism Services Directory. Provided free by NAS, it provides free access to information on autism related services in the UK.