Rights corrections — 8 September 2026: Corrected draft-stage wording, the 16-week refusal notice, automatic statements about school support and Section F enforcement. Review every generated sentence for your circumstances. This was an editorial source check, not qualified legal sign-off. Sources: draft representations, refusal notice, specificity.
Free SEND Letter Generator
Prepare a draft using your own facts, then review and edit it before sending. These templates cover England and include Kent route information. They do not lodge an appeal or send a message.
Choose the right route: The refusal-to-assess letter asks the local authority to reconsider; it is not a Tribunal appeal and does not extend the appeal deadline. Use HMCTS’s SEND35A route to lodge that appeal. These drafts use a parent’s voice. For a young person above compulsory school age, check who holds the decision-making and appeal rights and adapt the wording with their involvement.
Privacy on this device: SENDPath does not receive the details you enter. Choosing an email draft or sharing an export sends a copy outside this tool. They are saved in this browser and remain after you close it. If this is a shared or public device, use Clear all saved details before you leave. Clearing this tool does not remove files you downloaded, printed copies, open print windows, copied clipboard text or drafts in your email app.Which letter do you need?
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Source and route check — 22 September 2026: These are original SENDPath preparation drafts, with no qualified legal sign-off. Use the assessment test, draft-plan rules, official appeal guidance, DfE’s May 2026 travel guidance (part 5) and Kent’s current transport process. A request for a reply within five or 15 working days in these drafts is not an additional statutory deadline.
Common questions
Do I need a solicitor to write to my Local Authority?
No. A parent can write directly to a local authority. Legal representation is optional, but case-specific advice may help with complex evidence, placement or tribunal issues. IPSEA's call-in helpline is 0300 222 5899 (check current opening times on IPSEA’s website), with pre-booked Advice and Tribunal Helplines arranged online.
Will the letter actually work?
These templates are starting points and cannot guarantee a response or outcome. Check every statutory reference and deadline against your decision letter and current official guidance, then adapt the facts to your situation.
What if I make a mistake in the letter?
Always review and edit the generated letter before sending. Every situation is different. If you are unsure, seek case-specific advice before sending and keep a dated copy with proof of delivery. IPSEA's call-in helpline is 0300 222 5899 (check current opening times on IPSEA’s website), with pre-booked services arranged online.
How long does the Local Authority have to respond?
For an initial request, the LA must usually notify its assessment decision within six weeks of receiving the request and, where it issues a plan, send the final plan within 20 weeks of receipt, subject to statutory exceptions. The usual appeal deadline is 2 months from the decision letter or 1 month from the mediation certificate, whichever is later. Check current official guidance for the route and deadline that applies.
Is this letter generator free?
Yes. The SENDPath Letter Generator is free and runs in your browser; the details you enter are not submitted to SENDPath. Inputs are saved in this browser until you use Clear all saved details or clear the site's browser storage. Avoid using a shared device for sensitive family information.