Disagreement resolution service
The disagreement resolution service covers all children and young people who have SEND, not just those who are being assessed for or have an Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plan.
It’s there to help resolve disagreements relating to SEND provision in a non-confrontational way through discussion.
What is disagreement resolution?
As a parent of a child or young person with SEND, you can ask for disagreement resolution at any time. The disagreement could be with your child’s school, the Council, other education providers, or health professionals involved in your child or young person’s EHC needs assessment or plan for example.
Disagreement resolution offers an alternative to tribunal hearings and is often quicker and less formal. Used early enough it could prevent the need for mediation or further escalation.
The service is independent of the council and offers a voluntary and confidential way to resolve disagreements. Once you self-refer the service will contact the other party (or parties) involved to ask whether they are willing to take part.
There’s no requirement to use disagreement resolution services before using other complaints procedures and a decision to not use disagreement resolution has no effect on your right to go to tribunal.
How to access the service
The disagreement resolution service is free of charge for parents and young people, and their parents and carers.
You can refer yourself by telephone or email:
Call
020 7359 3635
Once they receive your referral, you’ll be allocated a case worker. Most disagreement resolution meetings are arranged within 33 days of referral.
Get in touch with us
If you can't find what you need, feel free to get in touch with us. Our opening hours are:
- Monday to Thursday from 9.30am to 3pm
- Friday from 9.30am to 2pm
We aim to respond to all enquiries within 3 working days.
Other sources of help and support:
Hertfordshire Local Offer
The Local Offer lets parents and young people know what special educational needs and disabilities services are available in Hertfordshire, and who can access them.
Visit the Local Offer →
Contact
A charity for families with disabled children offering information and advice.
Visit Contact →
HPCI
An independent parent carer organisation ensuring family voices are heard.
Visit the HPCI →
IPSEA
Independent information, advice and support, with free guides, resources and template letters.
Visit IPSEA →