Disagreement Resolution

The Local Authority can be contacted at any point in the ALN process  to discuss any issues or concerns you may with the IDP process or concerns you may have about decision the LA have made about your child’s education.  However, there might be times when you disagree with the decision made. It is important that your concerns are raised so that early discussions can take place, or a meeting arranged. In the first instance please contact your named officer who will be happy to help you (named on the letters you have received from us).

Where disagreements occur, we will seek to work with you to try and resolve the matter. However where matters cannot be resolved and the matter is part of a formal SENTW appeal a more formal Disagreement Resolution and mediation may be required as part of the process.

Local authorities are also required to have an independent advocacy service to support parents and children, young people with the ALN system. . Torfaen have a service level agreement with SNAP Cymru. SNAP Cymru provides free, independent information and advice for parents of children and young people with additional learning needs. SNAP Cymru promotes effective partnership working and recognises the importance of the active involvement of parents and young people in decisions about additional learning provision. The service provides opportunities to talk through any concerns you have and to help you prepare for discussions in addition to attending meetings and visiting schools with you if you wish. Torfaen have a service level agreement with SNAP to provide this service free of charge to families.