In the UK, as a parent, you have some influence over the services provided to your child with challenging behavior, but the extent to which you can choose a specific company depends on several factors:
1. Local Council’s Role in Commissioning Services
Local councils are responsible for assessing your child’s needs and commissioning appropriate services. They often have agreements with specific providers or organizations and may limit your options to those they have already contracted.
However:
- You can express a preference for a specific service provider if they meet your child’s needs.
- Councils are required to consider your views and preferences when planning support under frameworks like the Children Act 1989 and SEND Code of Practice.
2. Personal Budgets and Direct Payments
If your child has an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) or is eligible for other forms of support, you may be able to access a personal budget or direct payments. These give you more flexibility in choosing the service provider.
- Personal Budget: Allocated funds to cover specific needs outlined in the EHCP. You can request a direct payment to manage this budget yourself.
- Direct Payments: You can use these to pay for services, such as a private provider for behavioral support, as long as the council approves it.
3. Making a Case for Your Preferred Provider
If you want a specific company to support your child:
- Research the Provider: Ensure they are registered, qualified, and experienced in handling challenging behavior.
- Explain Your Choice: Clearly articulate why this company is the best fit for your child’s needs. For example, highlight their specialized expertise, success stories, or alignment with your child’s specific requirements.
- Provide Evidence: If applicable, include reports or recommendations from professionals (e.g., doctors, therapists, or teachers) that support your choice.
4. When Your Preference May Be Denied
Local councils may reject your request if:
- The provider is not part of their approved list.
- The provider’s costs exceed what the council considers reasonable.
- The council believes another provider can meet your child’s needs adequately.
In such cases:
- You can appeal the decision through the council’s complaints process.
- For EHCP-related disputes, you can contact the Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal (SENDIST).
5. Steps to Advocate for Your Choice
- Discuss with Your Social Worker or Case Manager: Share your preference during the assessment or planning process.
- Request a Personal Budget: If eligible, apply for funding that allows more control over the choice of providers.
- Negotiate with the Council: Provide compelling reasons and evidence to support your preference.
- Seek Mediation or Appeal: If your choice is denied, you can request mediation or take further action to appeal the decision.
6. Professional Guidance
For additional support, consider consulting advocacy organizations, such as:
- IPSEA (Independent Provider of Special Education Advice): www.ipsea.org.uk
- Contact: www.contact.org.uk
- Family Rights Group: www.frg.org.uk
These organizations can help you navigate the system and advocate for your preferred services.
By understanding your rights and the council’s processes, you can work towards securing the best possible support for your child.