Help if you have a disabled child
Education
Under the Equality Act 2010, it’s against the law for schools and other education providers to discriminate against disabled children.
Examples of discrimination include:
- a school refusing to admit a disabled child just because of their disability
- stopping a disabled pupil going outside at break time because it takes them longer to get there
Contact the Equality Advisory Support Service if you think your child has been discriminated against because of their disability.
Making ‘reasonable adjustments’
Schools have to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ for disabled children. These can include:
- changes to physical features, for example adding a ramp
- changes to how learners are assessed
- providing extra support and aids, for example specialist teachers or equipment
Special educational needs
Some children may have special educational needs because their disabilities affect their ability to learn.
You can ask your council to carry out an education, health and care (EHC) needs assessment for your child. They may get an EHC plan, which will explain the extra support they need.
The council must make sure your child gets this support.
Ask to see a school’s policy on special educational needs so you know what support they can offer.
Find your local support service if you need impartial advice about special educational needs.