SEND Guide for Parents & Carers
Department for Education
Official guidance explaining how the SEND support system works and where parents and carers can find further information.
FREE · ENGLANDRead the GuideResources
Support, information and resources for your SEN journey.
Finding the right information can sometimes feel overwhelming. This space brings together our supportive SEN Families Unite community and trusted external resources to help parents and carers find information, connection and somewhere to start.
You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone
Join Our Free SEN Families Unite Community
FREE TO JOINSEN Families Unite is a supportive community created to guide, empower and connect families navigating Special Educational Needs.
It provides a welcoming space where parents and carers can connect with others, ask questions, share experiences and access practical and emotional support throughout their SEN journey.
Free to join. A supportive space for SEN families.
Trusted Information
Helpful places to start
We’ve brought together a small selection of trusted external resources that may help you better understand SEND support, education and your options as a parent or carer.
Some of the resources below relate specifically to the SEND system in England.
Understanding SEN Support
GOV.UK
Information about SEN support in schools and colleges, including examples of additional help a child may receive.
FREE · ENGLANDExplore SEN SupportNew to SEND? Start Here
GOV.UK
A useful starting point for understanding Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, who to speak to and what support may be available.
FREE · ENGLANDStart HereEducation, Health and Care Plans
GOV.UK
Information about EHC plans, requesting an assessment and what additional support may be available when a child needs more than ordinary SEN support.
FREE · ENGLANDLearn About EHC PlansNot sure where to start?
Every family’s journey is different. If you’re unsure where to begin, connect with the SEN Families Unite community or get in touch with us.
External Resources
SEN Families Unite CIC provides links to third-party organisations for information and signposting. External organisations are responsible for their own content and guidance. Please check that information applies to your circumstances and where you live.