If you are thinking about making an appeal to the SEND Tribunal about an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan or an EHC needs assessment, you can choose to go to a mediation meeting first. This is a chance to talk face-to-face with someone from your local authority with the help of an impartial mediator. Mediation aims to improve communication and understanding by bringing both parties together and helping them find an early solution that everyone agrees with. This may prevent the need for a tribunal.
The meeting is managed by an independent mediator who has knowledge of SEND and the law. They facilitate a controlled and balanced conversation, making sure everyone is treated fairly and able to have their say. The parties are encouraged to listen to each other’s views and given the chance to ask questions. Once the parties have an up-to-date understanding of the issues, the mediator helps them to explore possible solutions and ways forward.