SEND AND DISABILITY LAW GUIDES

Understanding your legal rights is key to getting the right support if you or your child has Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

These guide explain the main laws that protect children, young people, and adults with SEND and/or disabilities in education.

These laws make sure that needs are identified early, support is provided fairly, and discrimination is not allowed. Whether you're in early years, school, college, or adult learning, the law ensures access to appropriate education and support throughout the journey.

Key Points of Importance:

SEND Code of Practice (2015):

Guidance on how education, health, and care services must support children and young people aged 0–25 with SEND.

Children and Families Act 2014:

The core law for SEND. Sets out rights to assessments, EHC plans, reviews, and participation in decision-making.

Education Act 1996:

States that children must receive a suitable education, including those with SEND, and underpins many duties on schools and local authorities.

Equality Act 2010:

Protects disabled learners from discrimination. Schools, colleges, and universities must make reasonable adjustments to ensure equal access and inclusion.

Why this matters:

These laws ensure your rights to an education that meets your needs and protects you from unfair treatment or exclusion.

Here Are Our SEND and Disability Law Need To Know Guides:

A Guide to SEN and Disability: Statute Law, Regulations, and Guidance

Understanding the legal foundations of Special Educational Needs (SEN) and disability support is essential for parents, carers, professionals, and young people. This guide outlines the key laws, statutory instruments, and official guidance that govern SEND in England.

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A Guide to the SEND Code of Practice 2015 (0–25 years)

The Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Code of Practice 2015 is statutory guidance that supports the implementation of Part 3 of the Children and Families Act 2014 and the SEN and Disability Regulations 2014. It applies to England only and covers children and young people aged 0–25 with SEN and/or disabilities.

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A Guide to the Children and Families Act 2014 – Part 3 (Special Educational Needs and Disability)

A detailed guide for Parents, Carers and Young Persons

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A Guide to Equality and Disability Law in Education (SEND Context)

A detailed guide for Parents, Carers and Young Persons

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Guide to the Education Act 1996

With a focus on SEND and key educational duties in England

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Guide to the Special Educational Needs and Disability Regulations 2014

(Also known as “SEN Regulations 2014”)

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Guide to Tribunal and Mediation Law in SEND (England)

A detailed guide for Parents, Carers and Young Persons

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