ABSTRACT
When parents approach the assessment process, they often begin with an assumption that they are tapping into an existing partnership among the professionals, with its own efficient and effective communications, mutual understanding and respect. The 'parent forum' often works alongside other user group consultative bodies such as those drawn from head teachers, special educational needs co-ordinator (SENCOs) and governors. The brief for the parent partnership initiative varies according to each local education authority, but generally is designed to provide a bridge between parents and the local education authority in the first instance, and possibly facilitate further links with schools and other agencies. The Named Person is intended to be someone who is independent of the local education authority, who can provide support, impartial information and advice to the parents. The voluntary sector in general, and parent support groups in particular, have a valuable role to play in advising education authorities on the development of their special educational needs services.
