Free SEND Support for Families This March

We hope you had a restful half-term break and are settling back into the new term.

At Richmond Mencap, we know this can feel like an uncertain time for families, particularly with ongoing national discussions around SEND reform. That’s why we’re encouraging families to make the most of the free, independent support available from Richmond & Kingston SENDIASS throughout March.

Their team continues to provide clear, up-to-date advice to help families understand their rights and confidently navigate their child or young person’s SEND journey.

Free Online Workshops – Open to All

Richmond & Kingston SENDIASS is running a series of free online workshops for families and professionals.

Workshop Topics Include:

• Considering an EHC Plan
• Responding to a Draft EHCP
• Discussing Alternative Provision
• How Ordinarily Available Provision and SEN Support Can Help
• Appeals to a SEND Tribunal

Additional Support Sessions:

• Transition to Secondary School for Young People on SEN Support
• EHCP Phase Transfer (covering key transitions across education settings)

These sessions are a great opportunity to build understanding, ask questions, and feel more confident about next steps.

Helpful SEND Videos Available Anytime

Families can also access a growing library of short, easy-to-understand videos via thePolaris SENDIASS YouTube Channel.

Topics include:

• Completing SEND forms (Request to Assess, Tribunal forms)
• Understanding SEN Mediation
• What to Expect from SENDIASS
• Annual Reviews
• Phase Transfers
• Transition to Secondary School

These resources are designed to make information more accessible and easier to navigate at your own pace.

Sharing Support Across Our Community

At Richmond Mencap, we’re proud to share and promote services that support local families. We encourage you to spread the word so that more parents, carers, and professionals can access this valuable, free support.

Together, we can help ensure every family feels informed, supported, and empowered.