[Speeds]

Thomas had his statement renewed recently and now he should get termly OT visits.

Anyway - last term no OT came.  I knew this would happen but I wanted to make sure that they defaulted as every other time things have not been done I have phoned around, then someone comes and then there is no default - just frustrated parent and teachers!

So, they have now defaulted on the statement.  The SENCo was following up yesterday (I have yet to find out what has been done) but I was wondering:

1.  Who should I write my letter of complaint to?
2.  Should we as a group work out some kind of standard letter for this as I am pretty sure that I am not the only one!  What shoud I/we write?
3.  Should I approach a solicitor about this now - bearing in mind I know this is common
4.  Should I expect OT to attend twice this term - e.g. if they come in Jan 08 - i.e. now shold I expect them to come later in the term too?  I know this should depend on my son's needs but I am tryign to look at this generally
5.  Is there general rules or some kind of general rules document on how to complain about statements (i.e. government guidance) or does each LEA just have its own complaints procedure?

I can answer most of my own questions but I am interested to hear from the experienced on the forum.

Many thanks

[paula]

That is terrible! Why can't people just do what they are supposed to do? In answer to your questions,

1. I would write to everyone involved with your son through to health and education. The more people that you can get involved the more likely it is that one of them may be of help. It also registers your feelings with the relevant people for future reference. When we had problems with therapy provision, we contacted our local MP and it was amazing how things start to get done when you have the House of Commons letterhead on a letter.

2. Definitely think that a standard letter on this and a range of topics would be a good idea - will have to give this some thought and put our heads together. If you or any one else has a letter that they want to be checked then please feel free to e mail it to us.

3. Regarding the solicitor, I do not know if there is financial help available, but could this be expensive? I know that some charities offer legal representation so would it be worth contacting one of these?

4. I would certainly insist that the OT comes twice this term as they have renegaded on their responsibilities this time. Can't really see how they can argue otherwise really.

5. Not sure but will find out!

Like you, I would be interested to hear others opinions and experience on this.

Let us know how you get on x