Mediation Services for
Families & Children
with SEND
The SEND Disagreement Resolution and Mediation Service provides an independent, impartial and person-centred way to resolve disagreements involving children and young people aged 0–25 with SEND and their families — a calm, neutral and confidential alternative to formal complaints or tribunals.
Family & Child Mediation
Resolving SEND Disagreements Together
A Constructive Alternative to Formal Disputes
The SEND Disagreement Resolution and Mediation Service provides an independent, impartial and person-centred way to resolve disagreements involving children and young people aged 0–25 with SEND and their families. We create a safe, respectful and constructive environment where every voice is heard and treated equally.
Avoids Tribunal
Resolves concerns early and informally wherever possible.
Up to 2 Hours
Each disagreement resolution or mediation session can last up to two hours.
SEND Compliant
Delivered in line with SEND legislation & the Code of Practice.
Expert Advisers
Knowledge of SEND law, EHC plans, education, health & social care.
Our Mediation Aims & Principles
Every session is designed to protect relationships, promote communication, and focus on positive, lasting outcomes for children and young people.
Resolve Disagreements Early & Informally
We help families and services settle disagreements at the earliest stage, avoiding formal complaints or tribunal proceedings wherever possible.
Everyone Heard & Treated Equally
Children, young people, parents and carers are all given equal voice, respect and consideration throughout the process.
Safe, Respectful & Constructive
We provide a confidential environment where concerns can be explored openly, calmly and without judgement.
Better Communication & Partnership
We promote stronger working relationships between families, schools, Blackpool Council, health and other services.
Practical, Sustainable Solutions
We focus on outcomes that genuinely work for children and young people — practical agreements that last beyond the session.
Protected Working Relationships
Resolving disagreement well preserves and improves the trust and cooperation between all parties involved.
Aligned to SEND Legislation
Mediation and disagreement resolution delivered in line with relevant SEND legislation, the SEND Code of Practice and professional standards.
Independent, Qualified Mediators
Experienced advisers with knowledge of SEND law, EHC assessments and plans, education, health, social care and dispute resolution.
The Mediation Journey
A clear, supportive process from first contact to agreed outcomes.
Get in Touch
Families, schools or services can refer a SEND disagreement to us. We'll listen and explain how the process works in confidence.
Agree Who Takes Part
Together we identify the right people to be involved — the child or young person, parents, carers, school, council and health where relevant.
Mediation Session
An independent, impartial mediator guides a structured conversation. Each disagreement resolution or mediation session can last up to two hours.
Agreed Outcomes
Parties work towards practical, sustainable agreements focused on positive outcomes for the child or young person.
Focused Sessions, Lasting Outcomes
Each disagreement resolution or mediation session can last up to two hours. Guided by an independent, qualified mediator, parties explore concerns openly and work together towards practical, sustainable agreements focused on the child or young person's positive outcomes.
Our Mediators & Advisers
Independent, qualified and experienced mediators and advisers with knowledge of:
- SEND law & EHC assessments and plans
- Education, health & social care
- Dispute resolution & the SEND Code of Practice
Talk to Us About SEND Mediation
If your family, school or service is navigating a SEND disagreement, our independent mediators are here to help you find a constructive way forward — without the stress and cost of a tribunal.