ABSTRACT

Parents whose children have a special educational need have a number of additional challenges that might result in lengthy calls on their time, financial costs – for example through visits to hospitals and specialists – and buying specialist equipment, and increased stress levels. In addition to the legal requirements of working in partnership with parents, there is a UK legislative framework in relation to the support of children with Special Education Needs or Disability. This is the Special Educational Needs Code of Practice. Whilst the Equality Act is concerned with creating a society that is inclusive and takes into account a range of characteristics, the Children and Families Act has a different focus. Maintained schools and maintained nursery schools must identify a member of staff to act as Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO) and other providers are expected to identify a SENCO.