Mediation can be a less formal way to resolve disagreements than going to tribunal, saving time and pressure for all involved. However, families who are not happy with the outcome of mediation can still appeal to the tribunal. You have two months from the decision letter to lodge the appeal with the tribunal or one month from your mediation certificate.
When considering going to tribunal, a discussion with us can help you decide whether mediation is a suitable way to move forward. If you choose to go ahead with mediation, we will arrange this at a time and date that best suits you. This will be arranged within 30 days of you notifying us.
If you do not wish to participate in mediation, you can obtain a certificate from us (by calling us on 01942 233323), and this will be issued within three working days of informing us of your decision. You can then send this certificate to the tribunal.
In most circumstances, parents and young people must contact us before appealing to the First-Tier Tribunal – Special Educational Needs and Disability to consider mediation.