SEND TALK Podcasts

We answer your most commonly asked questions

We empower you to make the right and informed choices for you or your child

The SEND Talk podcast is simple, easy-to-understand, jargon-free advice for parents and carers of children with Special Educational Needs and/or Disability or for young people navigating the world with SEND.

It features those that live and breathe SEND support including experts from here at  SENDIASS Manchester and parents who’ve been through the same hurdles you may be facing. Each episode, together with your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull, they chat through some of the most common SEND support queries.


If there’s a subject you’d like us to discuss in a future episode: email us here. 


Listen for free below or on your favourite podcast player including Apple podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music and Youtube. Simply click the links or search ‘SEND Talk’ wherever you listen! 


You’ll find full transcriptions of each episode below too.   

Here's what some of our listeners have to say about SEND Talk

Click the links below to listen to and read about our podcast episodes

Series 1

Episode 1. SEN in Schools

Having special educational needs doesn’t mean that your school isn’t equipped to support you or your child. In this episode we discuss what that support can look like and how to ask for it.


Joining your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull in this episode is Jill Carr a case worker at SENDIASS Manchester and Alison, a parent whose child has received SEND support in their school.

  • Talking points in this episode

    [00.00] Podcast & episode introduction

    [01:01] Introduction to Jill and her work

    [01.44] What do we mean by SEND?

    [02.12] SEND guidance for schools and local authorities

    [02.49] School’s responsibilities to support SEND pupils

    [05.02] SEND support in schools - what it looks like

    [05.37] Difference between primary and secondary school support 

    [07.02] Who decides on the support

    [11.53] Making progress

    [13.17] Do you need an EHCP plan?

    [14.24] The parent conversation

    [25.40] Suggested next steps

    [26.20] Outro with useful further information and contact details

Episode 2. School meetings- preparation beforehand

After an educational health care needs assessment is sent, the local authority will send you a ‘Notice of Consideration’ letter.


But these letters can prove a little confusing!

In this episode, your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull and SENDIASS adviser Laura Nardella take you through the whys and what fors of a ‘notice of consideration letter’, why you get sent them, what they mean and how you can respond. 


This is part of our FAQ series, which focuses on the commonly asked questions we get asked here at SENDIASS.

  • Talking points in this episode

    [00.00] Podcast and episode introduction

    [01:15] Introduction to question

    [01.38] What is a notice of consideration letter?

    [02.10] What causes the confusion?

    [03.27] Why local authorities send the letter

    [05.57] Parent takeaway

    [05.27] Outro and links to more info

Episode 3. School meetings- what happens after

It’s OK to feel unsure about what to do at a school meeting. Should you take notes? What about when the meeting has ended?


So in this episode, we discuss what happens at a school meeting, what you need to bring, and how to follow up when it’s all happened.


Joining your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull in this episode is Laura Nardella an adviser at SENDIASS Manchester and once again Siarah, a parent who explains her experience of how she’s conducted and followed up school meetings.


In episode 2 ‘Preparing for school meetings’ we share with you the important steps you should take before conducting and following up on your school meeting. Listen in our podcast feed.

  • Talking points in this episode

    [00.00] Podcast and episode introduction

    [01:22] Top tips for parents at school meetings

    [02.43] Taking notes / minutes

    [03.51] Being positive 

    [08.04] Confirming the action plan

    [09.49] Sharing your notes

    [11.24] The parent - Siarah

    [11.50] The process after the meeting

    [13.34] Does the school send minutes?

    [14.19] How Siarah takes notes / minutes

    [15.49] Siarah’s tips to calm your nerves

    [17.11] Outro with useful further information and contact details

Episode 4. EHCPs

An education, health and care plan is something you may have heard about if you or your child has SEN. But sometimes it can be difficult to navigate all the information that comes with them.


In this episode, we discuss all things EHCP, from what they are, the process of getting one, and all the guidance surrounding them.


Joining your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull in this episode is Andrew Lomax an adviser at SENDIASS Manchester and Tanya, a parent who tells you about her experiences of the EHCP process when it came to her child.

  • Talking points in this episode

    [00.00] Podcast and episode introduction

    [01:16] Andrew introduction

    [01.42] Who is this episode useful for?

    [02.09] What is an education and health care plan?

    [03.49] When an EHCP is needed

    [04.46] When a request can be made

    [06.04] Explanation of ‘a setting’

    [06.11] Further advice of when a request can be made

    [07.22] What happens when a local authority refuses to issue / assess a plan?

    [07.57] Seeing if existing support can be met

    [10.16] The assessment is agreed, what happens next?

    [11.08] The school or setting

    [12.04] The final step

    [12.45] The parent - Tanya

    [12.52] Tanya introduction and her family’s story

    [15.29] Going through the process more than once

    [17.14] Tiring experiences

    [18.30] Her EHCP experience

    [20.30] Accurately describing her child’s needs

    [25.29] Has the EHCP helped her son?

    [27.20] Tanya’s advice for parents

    [29.45] Andy’s suggested next steps

    [30.26] Outro with useful further information and contact details

Episode 5. Annual Reviews

A review is an essential step in having an education, health and care plan (EHCP). They’re vital to see if things are working (or not!), if are there items that need changing, and most importantly are you or your child with SEND progressing.


In this episode, we discuss what that annual review process looks like, including when they happen, early reviews, and organising the meeting.


Joining your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull in this episode is SENDIASS Manchester’s manager, Margarette Lee-Chapman.

  • Talking points in this episode

    [00.00] Podcast and episode introduction

    [00:51] Margarette introduction

    [01.25] Who is this episode useful for?

    [01.53] What is the EHCP in relation to an annual review?

    [04.08] Specific circumstances where plans must be reviewed

    [07.21] Rules about early years and annual reviews

    [09.29] How can parents be sure it’s an annual review?

    [11.00] What is an early review?

    [12.11] When to ask for an early review?

    [12.42] The right to appeal against the local authority who refuse an early review

    [13.54] Purpose of the meeting

    [16.19] How child / young people can be involved

    [17.35] Who’s responsible for the meeting?

    [18.55] What happens before the meeting?

    [21.26] What happens at the review meeting?

    [24.36] What happens when a young person stops attending college

    [25.02] What happens after the meeting

    [26.50] How a parent / young person is notified of the decision

    [27.24] Rules around complete reassessments

    [28.35] Amends without a review or a reassessment

    [29.11] A review is much more than just a meeting

    [29.45] Common myths surrounding annual reviews

    [33.08] Suggested next steps

    [34.15] Outro with useful further information and contact details

Series 2 - FAQ

Episode 1. What is SENDIASS?

Perhaps a friend, colleague, local authority or school has advised that you call SENDIASS.


But just what is SENDIASS?


In this episode, your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull and SENDIASS adviser Laura Nardella take you through the SENDIASS service and the SEND-related support we offer to young people, parents and professionals.


This is part of our FAQ series, which focuses on the commonly asked questions we get asked here at SENDIASS.

  • Talking points in this episode

    [00.00] Podcast & episode introduction

    [01:18] Introduction to question

    [02.15] What is SENDIASS

    [02.17] Breakdown of SENDIASS

    [02.52] Who the service is for

    [03.28] Working with professionals

    [03.50] The information provided

    [04.03] Example questions we get asked

    [05.12] More information links

    [05.35] Outro

Episode 2. Why have I received a notice of consideration letter (NOC)?

After an educational health care needs assessment is sent, the local authority will send you a ‘Notice of Consideration’ letter.


But these letters can prove a little confusing!

In this episode, your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull and SENDIASS adviser Laura Nardella take you through the whys and what fors of a ‘notice of consideration letter’, why you get sent them, what they mean and how you can respond. 


This is part of our FAQ series, which focuses on the commonly asked questions we get asked here at SENDIASS.

  • Talking points in this episode

    [00.00] Podcast and episode introduction

    [01:15] Introduction to question

    [01.38] What is a notice of consideration letter?

    [02.10] What causes the confusion?

    [03.27] Why local authorities send the letter

    [05.57] Parent takeaway

    [05.27] Outro and links to more info

Episode 3. What are the first steps in appealing to a SEND tribunal?

Did you know that you can appeal if you're unhappy with a decision made by the local authority about an EHC plan or an EHC needs assessment? 


In this episode, your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull and SENDIASS adviser Laura Nardella take you through the reasons why you would appeal to a SEND Tribunal, what can be appealed, and the first steps to take if you are considering this process.


This is part of our FAQ series, which focuses on the commonly asked questions we get asked here at SENDIASS.

  • Talking points in this episode

    [00.00] Podcast and episode introduction

    [01:16] Introduction to question

    [01.24] What is a SEND tribunal?

    [02.17] Does it cost?

    [02.27] What can be appealed?

    [06.19] The first thing to do…

    [07.38] You’ve got the letter…now what?

    [09.00] The mediation company

    [14.30] Send information to tribunal 

    [15.28] Do I need a solicitor?

    [16.35] What happens after I’ve sent my appeal?

    [18.05] Outro with useful further information and contact details 


Other useful Resources

Episode 4. Do I want a Personal Budget (Draft EHCP)?

A draft EHC plan has a question that stumps lots of people - ‘Do you want a personal budget?’

In this episode, your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull and SENDIASS adviser Laura Nardella explain educational personal budgets as part of your draft EHC plan.


This is part of our FAQ series, which focuses on the commonly asked questions we get asked here at SENDIASS.

  • Talking points in this episode

    [00.00] Podcast and episode introduction

    [01:24] Question introduction introduction

    [01.38] When are we asked if we want a personal budget?

    [03.19] What do we mean by a personal budget with relation to education?

    [04.24] So why then does the local authority ask the question? 

    [06.37] Outro and links to further information

Other useful Resources

Episode 5. Can the school send my child home (Unofficial suspensions)?

Has your child been sent home from school and are you unsure if it’s an official suspension?

 

In this episode, your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull and SENDIASS adviser Laura Nardella explain what constitutes an unofficial suspension or an official one, including definitions, the processes and your next steps as a parent. 


This is part of our FAQ series, which focuses on the commonly asked questions we get asked here at SENDIASS.

  • Talking points in this episode

    [00.00] Podcast and episode introduction

    [00:14] Question introduction

    [02.05] Is sending a child home allowed?

    [03.45] Officially recording and school processes

    [07.41] Does it matter if it’s an unofficial or official suspension?

    [09.06] What are the protections? 

    [11.34] Additional considerations for SEND pupils

    [14.08] What if parents are okay with their child coming home? 

    [16.07] Parent takeaway

    [17.34] Outro and links to further information

Other useful Resources

DFE Guidance

Episode 6. How do I check my child’s draft EHCP?

Every child with an educational health care plan (EHC) will be sent a draft plan first. We know it’s a big document with lots of sections, so we’re here to help you check it.

 

In this episode, your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull and SENDIASS adviser Laura Nardella take you through all the sections of a draft EHC plan, including where to start and lots of great advice to help you.


Have your draft EHC plan in front of you and follow along!


This is part of our FAQ series, which focuses on the commonly asked questions we get asked here at SENDIASS.

  • Talking points in this episode

    [00.00] Podcast and episode introduction

    [01:15] Question introduction / the timings of draft plan

    [02.14] Where to start

    [04.27] Section A

    [05.03] Section B

    [08.13] Why Section B is important

    [10.08] Sections C and D

    [10.31] Section E

    [12.25] Section F

    [16.55] Why specificity in section F is important

    [22.13] Sections G and H 

    [24.01] Sections J and K 

    [25.12] Naming a preferred school

    [26.27] Outro with useful further information and contact details 

Other useful Resources

IPSEA

Episode 7. Is my child eligible for Home to School Transport?

Your child could qualify for support from the local authority in getting to and from school. 

 

In this episode, your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull and SENDIASS adviser Laura Nardella look at the circumstances and eligibility criteria for home-to-school transport, including exploring the law, policy and statutory guidance around this and the application process. 


This is part of our FAQ series, which focuses on the commonly asked questions we get asked here at SENDIASS.

  • Talking points in this episode

    [00.00] Podcast and episode introduction

    [01:14] Introduce the question

    [02.04] First steps

    [03.12] Compulsory school age

    [06.32] Statutory walking distance 

    [10.20] Application process

    [11.46] Approval

    [12.13] The transport solution

    [13.28] The appeals process

    [15.44] Other age groups

    [19.15] Outro with useful further information and contact details

Other useful Resources

Series 3

Episode 1. I disagree with the named school on my child’s EHC plan – how do I appeal it?”

Did you know that you can appeal if you're unhappy with the named school in your child's EHC plan?


In this episode of the SEND Talk podcast, your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull and SENDIASS adviser Laura Nardella guide you through the process of appealing the named school or college in your child's EHC plan.

 

This step-by-step guide covers where to start, the necessary information and forms, important deadlines, and more. By the end of this episode, you'll have a comprehensive overview of what to do if you're considering appealing the named school in your child's EHC plan.

  • Talking points in this episode

    [00:00] Introduction to SEND Talk Podcast

    [00:32] Overview of Part I Appeals

    [02:12] Key Requirements for Appealing

    [04:28] Mediation and Its Exceptions

    [06:58] Essential Documents for Tribunal Appeal

    [12:12] Filling Out the SEND 35 Form

    [18:01] Introduction to Tribunal Appeals

    [18:07] Question 1: Stating Your Appeal

    [18:44] Question 2: Points Not Considered by Local Authority

    [19:47] Question 3: Disagreeing with School Choice

    [23:11] Question 4: Preferring Your Choice of School

    [23:42] Gathering and Submitting Evidence

    [25:09] Tips for Writing Reasons and Evidence

    [30:02] Finalising the Appeal Form

    [30:39] Organising and Sending Paperwork

    [33:18] After Submitting Your Appeal

Read Transcript

Other useful Resources

SEND 35 form Guide 44 SEND 35 Video

Scroll down to section ‘How to complete forms for the SEND Tribunal’ and choose the 2nd video called ‘SEND Tribunal appeal form 35 Introduction’.

Episode 2. What steps can I take to enforce my child’s EHC plan (Section F)?

Not getting the support promised in your child’s EHC plan?

In this episode of the SEND Talk podcast, your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull and SENDIASS advisor Laura Nardella break down what to do if your child isn’t receiving the support listed in Section F of their Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan.


If you’re unsure what should be in place, or feel stuck after multiple chats with school, this episode will help you take action.


You’ll learn:


  • What Section F actually is (and how it links to Section B)

  • Why Section F must be specific to be enforceable

  • What the law says about a local authority’s responsibility

  • The steps to take if provision isn’t being delivered

  • How to challenge vague wording and request updates to the plan


Packed with examples, tips, and practical next steps, this episode gives you the tools to understand your rights and push for the support your child is entitled to.

  • Talking points in this episode

    [00:00] Introduction to the Send Talk Podcast

    [00:28]Overview of Episode Topics

    [01:27] Understanding Section F of the EHC Plan

    [05:29] Legal Framework for Section F

    [09:21] Steps for Parents to Enforce the EHC Plan

    [14:10] Importance of Specificity in Section F

    [22:01] Addressing Common Issues and Final Advice

    [24:27] Conclusion and Contact Information

Read Transcript

Other useful Resources

IPSEA Letter to alert Council Complaints Tribunal Guide Podcast S2 E3

Episode 3. How do I change my child’s school place: with and without an EHC plan?

Need to change your child’s school? Not sure where to start?


In this episode of the SEND Talk podcast, your host Vic Elizabeth Turnbull and SENDIASS adviser Laura Nardella explain exactly what to do if you want to change your child’s school place.


Whether your child has an EHC plan, is going through an EHC needs assessment, or doesn’t have a plan at all, this episode covers the different processes involved, the steps to take, and what to expect along the way.


You’ll find out:


  • How to request to change your child’s school place when they don’t have an EHC plan

  • How to request to change your child’s school place when they don’t have an EHC plan

  • The process of changing school with an EHC plan (and why it’s not a quick fix)

  • How to use the annual review to request a new school

  • What to do if your child was told they’re “on the waiting list” for a specialist school

  • When and how to appeal,  including what triggers your right to tribunal

  • How to keep things moving when the process stalls

If you’re feeling confused or stuck, this episode breaks things down clearly so you can take confident next steps, no matter what stage you’re at.

  • Talking points in this episode

    [00:00] Introduction to the Send Talk Podcast

    [00:25] Overview of Changing School Places

    [02:15] Changing Schools Without an EHC Plan

    [06:32] Category Two Requests for Medical or Social Needs

    [07:13] Changing Schools During an EHC Needs Assessment

    [08:51] Changing Schools With an EHC Plan

    [11:45] Requesting Changes Through the Annual Review Process

    [21:29] Consultation Process and Next Steps

    [27:50] Managing Expectations and Final Tips

    [30:07] Conclusion and Contact Information


Read Transcript

Other useful Resources

MC Council Category 2 requests Factsheet 48 Tribunal guide 44 IPSEA

Send Talk artwork design by Justin Lees.