Empowering Parents
Influencing Change
Luton SENDIAS (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, Information and Advice Service) - A local statutory service supported and funded by Luton Council and Luton Clinical Commissioning Group which provides impartial, confidential information, advice and support for parents/carers of children and young people with disabilities and special educational needs (SEND). The service operates at ‘arms length’ from the Local Authority and aims to help parents/carers and professional staff to work together to provide the best possible support to children and young people with SEND. They can also support families with tribunal appeals.
Citizens Advice Luton provides a free, independent and confidential service to people who need independent advocacy support.
IPSEA provides free legally-based advice on educational issues for parents of children with special educational needs.
SOS!SEN offer a free, friendly, independent and confidential telephone helpline for parents and others looking for information and advice on special educational needs.
The National Autistic Society runs a number of helplines which can give advice on education, benefits, social care, school exclusions and transition.
Contact provides information and advice on any aspect of caring for a disabled child, including education and benefits. They run a free education advice line.
The Equality Advisory and Support Service advises and assists individuals on issues relating to equality and human rights.
Child Law Advice provides specialist advice and information on child, family and education law. They also offer a call-back service, which costs £25 for up to 30 minutes.
The Family Rights Group works with parents whose children are in need, at risk or are in the care system and advise them about their rights and options.
Cerebra run a project that helps families of children with brain conditions (including, autism, ADHD, epilepsy, learning difficulties etc.) cope with the legal barriers they face.