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Guides for SEND Families

Plain-English guides on rights, benefits, and staying resilient. Written for parents, by parents.

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💷 Income ✅ Benefits

DLA/PIP Decoder: Autism Descriptors Explained

DWP legalese translated into real everyday behaviours. Understand why "repetitive actions" qualifies for Middle Rate Care — and how to describe your child's needs accurately.

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⚖️ Rights 🎓 Education

The Golden EHCP Checklist

Section F of your EHCP is legally binding — every provision must be specific and quantified. This checklist helps you spot gaps and ensures Section B needs are reflected in Section F outcomes.

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💷 Income ✅ Benefits

DLA for Autistic Children — Rates, Eligibility & How to Apply

Real examples of successful DLA claims for autism, 2025/26 rates, how to fill in the form, and what to do if refused. The #1 guide for Kent SEND families.

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⚖️ Rights 🎓 Education

How to Apply for an EHCP in Kent — Step-by-Step Guide

Every stage of the EHCP process explained in plain English — request letters, timelines, what to check in the draft plan, and Kent contacts including IASK.

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🎓 Education

Special Schools in Kent — Parent Guide with Ofsted Ratings

Kent special schools by area with Ofsted ratings, SEND types, age ranges, and how to secure a placement via EHCP. Includes independent schools and ABA flag.

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🔍 Diagnosis

Private Autism Assessment in Kent — Providers, Costs & NHS Acceptance

With NHS waits at 18–24 months, many Kent families consider private. This guide covers costs (£1,500–£3,500), verified providers, and whether a private diagnosis will be accepted.

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🎉 Activities 🌿 Wellbeing

Autism-Friendly Activities in Kent — Free & Low-Cost Guide

What makes an activity genuinely autism-friendly, Short Breaks funding, free carer entry schemes, and activities across Kent that actually work for autistic children.

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🤝 Support 💚 Mental Wellbeing

Debt & Mental Health: Staying Resilient

Care costs spiral. Stress follows. This guide covers managing financial pressure as a SEND family — with links to StepChange and Mental Health & Money Advice for free, confidential support.

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📋 Rights 🤝 Support

First 100 Days After Autism Diagnosis

Your child has just been diagnosed. Here's what to do next — a practical, no-jargon guide for the first 100 days.

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🤝 Support

NHS vs Private Autism Assessment

Kent NHS wait is 3-4 years. This guide covers Right to Choose, private options, financing, and what to do while waiting.

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💷 Income

Grants for SEND Families in Kent

Family Fund, SEND Help UK, Newlife and more. A guide to grants, charities and funding available to Kent families.

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📋 Rights 🎓 Education

EHCP Tribunal — Your Rights & How to Appeal

98% of parents win at tribunal. Here's how to appeal, success rates, and what to expect.

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📋 Rights

Free EHCP Request Letter Template

Free template to request an Education, Health and Care Plan. Just fill in the blanks.

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📋 Rights 🎓 Education

Transition to Adulthood (16-25)

EHCP changes, benefits, college support. What Kent parents need to know.

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📋 Rights 🎓 Education

School Transport Appeals

How to appeal Kent's transport decisions. Template letter included.

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