EHCP Help / Advice & next steps
When to seek independent SEND advice
Asking for advice does not commit you to a formal challenge or paid support. It can simply help you understand your options.
Quick answer
Start with the latest letter, the support currently in place and the next date or decision you are waiting for. Keep copies and ask for plain-English clarification if anything is unclear.
What this means
Independent advice may help when letters are unclear, evidence is missing, communication has stalled or you are unsure what a decision means.
A good first conversation should help you identify the question you need answered and the options that are proportionate for your family.
Free advice services may be enough. More specialist support is usually most useful when the issue is complex, urgent or disputed.
What to do next
Write down your main question.
Gather the most relevant letter and evidence.
Use free advice services first where available.
Ask what options exist and what each involves.
Take time to decide what feels manageable.
Things to check
Is there an important deadline?
Have you been given reasons for the decision?
Is school evidence up to date?
Are professional reports missing or disputed?
Do you understand the possible cost or commitment before agreeing to support?
Questions to ask
What support or decision is currently in place?
What evidence has been considered or may still be missing?
What is the next action, who is responsible and when should it happen?
Local Northamptonshire route
Families in Northamptonshire can check the relevant local authority SEND route for West Northamptonshire or North Northamptonshire. Local SENDIASS services can offer free, impartial information and support.
Free support and useful links
External free resource
West Northamptonshire SENDIASS
Free, impartial SEND information, advice and support for families in West Northamptonshire.
External free resource
North Northamptonshire SENDIASS
Free, impartial SEND information, advice and support for families in North Northamptonshire.
External free resource
Northamptonshire Local Offer
Local SEND information, services and support routes for children and young people.
External free resource
GOV.UK SEND information
Official information about special educational needs, EHC plans and support.
External free resource
IPSEA
Free SEND law information and resources for parents and carers.
External free resource
Council for Disabled Children
National resources and information about SEND support and policy.
Professional help is available if you need it
Many families use free information and school support first. Professional help is optional and may be useful if evidence is complicated, communication has stalled or you want help understanding your choices.
What happens next?
Your next step depends on the decision or stage you are at. Keep records, confirm actions in writing and use free advice before deciding whether additional support would help.
Support that may help
SEND advocate · Independent SEND adviser · SEND legal adviser, where appropriate
Helpful free resources
SEND Compass provides general information to help families understand possible next steps. It does not replace legal, medical or local authority advice.
Independent guidance for families
SEND Lantern is an independent guidance platform operated by Send Lantern Ltd. We help families explore special educational needs and disabilities support, possible next steps and relevant services. SEND Lantern is not part of the NHS, a local authority, a school or any individual service provider. Information on this website is general guidance and should not be treated as medical, legal or educational advice.