Independent Support is a nationally funded Government programme which provides extra help to parents and young people in relation to EHC plans – both for new entrants and for those transferring from statements or LDAs.
Support will be tailored to your needs and can include explaining the assessment / conversion process; helping you to get your views across, e.g. by accompanying you to meetings or helping you to fill in forms or write letters; helping you check the draft EHC plan before it is finalised, or providing information on personal budgets and direct payments.
In Nottinghamshire, Independent Support is provided by Futures and Ask Us Nottinghamshire (previously PPS Notts). Impartial information, advice and support, including resolving disagreements, registering complaints and formal appeals is also available. Both services are provided free of charge and accept self-referrals from parents and young people.