St Helens Metropolitan Borough Council (20 006 785)

Category: Education Date: 21-Sep-2021

Summary

Ms B complained the Council failed to meet her reasonable adjustments when it corresponded with her about her son’s special educational needs. She said the failure to do so meant she was unable to appeal against a decision not to issue an Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plan. She said the faults in the assessment of her son meant he attended a school that did not meet his needs and there was no means of requiring the school to do so as there was no EHCP in place. She also complained about the way the Council responded to her concerns. She said the Council’s failings meant she had to educate her son at home and it caused her and him distress. There was fault by the Council but it did not cause significant injustice to Ms B.

Service improvements

St Helens Metropolitan Borough Council (20 003 185)

Category: Education Date: 04-Oct-2021

Summary

There was fault by the Council in failing to secure suitable full-time education including provision in an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan and during COVID-19. There was also delays in the EHC process and a flawed complaint investigation. This has led to a loss of education and caused the family unnecessary time, trouble and distress. The complaint is upheld.

Service improvements