Supporting schools and families with SEND legal guidance

Recent headlines in The Guardian have highlighted the financial challenges facing local councils, particularly in relation to special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) funding. While these issues are complex, Birkett Long’s Education Team remains focused on providing practical support and guidance to schools, trusts, and SEND professionals facing these challenges.

SEND law can be complex, and schools often require clear, practical advice to ensure they meet their legal obligations while securing the best outcomes for their students. Birkett Long’s Education Team, led by Thomas Emmett, has extensive experience in supporting schools, multi-academy trusts, and SEND professionals in understanding their responsibilities and advocating for the right support.

Thomas Emmett, Head of Education at Birkett Long, emphasises the importance of this support: “Schools and trusts are working incredibly hard to support children with SEND, often in difficult circumstances. Our role is to provide the legal clarity they need to make informed decisions, ensuring that children receive the support they are entitled to.”

By providing schools with expert advice on Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), funding disputes, and compliance with SEND regulations, Birkett Long’s education team helps them address challenges with confidence.

A core part of the education team’s work is delivering SEND law training to schools, trusts, and SEND professionals. These sessions cover essential topics such as:

• The legal framework surrounding EHCPs
• The role of schools and local authorities in providing SEND support
• Managing SEND disputes and appeals
• Understanding funding and statutory obligations

Through training and one-on-one guidance, education professionals are equipped with the tools they need to support students effectively.

In addition to legal support, the team is committed to building a strong support network for SEND professionals and families. Birkett Long’s dedicated SEND law Facebook group, now with over 18,000 members, serves as an invaluable resource, providing schools, parents, and guardians with access to expert legal guidance and peer support. This online community allows educators and families to share experiences, ask questions, and receive timely advice on SEND-related matters, ensuring they are well informed and supported.

Every school and trust has different needs, and Birkett Long provides personalised legal support to help them address specific challenges. Whether advising on policy development, assisting with appeals, or supporting schools in negotiations with local authorities, the team offers strategic guidance that helps institutions meet their legal and educational responsibilities.

Despite financial pressures in the education sector, schools remain dedicated to providing the best support for children with SEND. Birkett Long’s Education Team ensures that schools and trusts have the legal knowledge, resources, and support needed to continue delivering high-quality education.

Through expert advice, training, and community engagement, the team is proud to support schools and trusts in making informed decisions that benefit both their institutions and students.