08/08/2024
As Toby's Mum I have set up this page to support Toby and us as a family as after 451 days Toby still has no education placement. Toby's last SEN placement broke down 15th May 2023. This was her 2nd SEN school breakdown.
The situation we find ourselves in is spiralling with no interest from the LA (Local Authority - Council). We are currently in tribunal with them for provisions they are trying to force that cannot meet need and of which the provisions themselves have attested to.
We found an alternative provision 10mths ago who could meet Toby's high complex needs, however the LA refused this on the basis that they are not Ofsted registered... we have done lots of research and spoken with legal advisors and this is not the case in other counties.
Toby would NOT be following a typical curriculum or carrying out 'educational' work therefore their argument is irrelevant. She requires a bespoke package with high level experienced and qualified staff to support her and a package that is focused on her interests.
Our hearing date is February 2025 and in honesty I don't know how we will even make it to then.
I have contacted every man and his dog for help and gotten no where.
Everyone is surprised at our situation but believe it or not there are many more SEN children in our local area and beyond who are in a similar position. Why do our children not matter?
Had I have kept my child out of education for 451 days I would now be eating and sleeping at his majesty's pleasure.
So... why, why, why is it different for them? How is this allowed to happen?
Please show your support for Toby by sharing our story, liking this page and posting your comments as we need attention on this urgently.
We are truly wiped out from fighting. We can no longer pour from an empty cup... there is no cup... it has been smashed to smithereens.
I've raised multiple complaints, gone up the chain of command, including to the previous Council Leader. I've contacted the previous MP and now our new one along with our local councillor. I have reached out to multiple school provisions myself both in our area and out of county, I have spoken with DofE, Ofsted, CQC, press and my more recent challenge has been raising complaints with the Onbudsman.
I've been assertive, I've fought, I've cried, I've even begged... still... nothing.
The levels of anxiety, anger, abandonment, frustration, isolation, financial strain and loneliness are beyond measure and it is causing real harm to Toby and us as a family.
Thank you for reading and for your support.
SEND Reform England
Shropshire Star
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