EHCP Help / Advice & next steps

When to seek independent SEND advice

Seeking advice does not commit you to formal action.

Quick answer

Use free advice first if you are unsure what a school decision or next step means.

What this means

Independent advice may help when support is unclear, communication has stalled or formal school action is involved.

Free SENDIASS information may be a useful first step.

More specialist help is optional.

What to do next

Things to check

Questions to ask

Local Northamptonshire route

Check the relevant local SENDIASS service.

Professional help is available if you need it

Professional help is optional.

What happens next?

Choose the most proportionate next step for your family.

Support that may help

SENDIASS · Independent SEND adviser · SEND advocate

SEND Compass provides general information to help families understand possible next steps. It does not replace legal, medical or local authority advice.