There are many advocates and representatives offering their services to support parents/carers and young people when navigating SEND issues. It is important that you make an informed choice when considering whether to use an advocate.

Advocates may support parents and carers at meetings, with paperwork, when appealing to the SEND Tribunal, or with general advice and guidance on the SEND system. There is no requirement for parents to pay for an advocate or representative, and many use free information and advice to manage their SEND issues themselves.

There is no organisation which regulates the work of SEND advocates or the fees they charge. Whilst they provide an invaluable service, there are also concerns that some advocates lack the necessary experience and knowledge to adequately support parents, carers and young people, particularly in SEND appeals.

Parents, advocates and lawyers with expertise in the areas of SEND, education law and the use of representatives have co-produced a guidance document. Eleanor Wright, our legal officer at SOS!SEN, was part of the team producing this guidance. We hope that you find this useful if you are deciding whether you need an advocate/representative and who to use.