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How to Challenge Local Authorities on Shortfalls in SEND Funding

Including EHCPs, Alternative Provision and High Needs Budget Gaps


SEMINAR BRIEF

Fighting for the right funding shouldn’t be a full-time job but when it comes to SEND, that’s exactly how it can feel.  In this session, VWV break down the legal steps schools can take to challenge local authority decisions around SEND funding, including clawbacks, EHCP shortfalls and alternative provision. You’ll leave with a better understanding of your rights, your options and how to respond when budgets are squeezed and responsibilities get passed around like a hot potato.



IN THIS SEMINAR WE EXPLORE


• Legal considerations around clawbacks when a pupil isn’t attending school
• Ways to ensure that your schools can successfully challenge local authority decisions

• An overview of local authority/NHS duties in relation to funding

• Making of special educational provision via EHCPs or alternative provision

• Practical steps to escalate concerns and build a strong case
• How to navigate the grey areas and protect your school’s position



TAKE HOME POINTS


Clear guidance on rights, tools for challenging unfair decisions and strategies for protecting your budget and provision.



THIS SESSION IS FOR SCHOOL BUSINESS LEADERS WHO


Are dealing with funding clawbacks, shortfalls in EHCP provision or alternative provision costs and want to know how to push back effectively.

Miriam Carrion Benitez
About the speaker:


Miriam is an experienced barrister, who joined VWV's Regulatory Compliance team in September, specialising in education law, human rights and equality. She has vast experience in advising educational providers, local authorities and families in education law disputes, from early years to higher education. Miriam provides advice and representation on admissions, exclusions, SEND, discrimination, school complaints, OFSTED and OIA matters.

She appears regularly in SENDIST appeals including highly complex multi-day extended appeals and disability discrimination claims both in the First-Tier Tribunal and Upper Tribunal.


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