The Special Educational Needs and Disability Act 2001 has made it unlawful for schools to discriminate against the disabled. The law has been considerably strengthened since the passage of the Equality Act 2010. The Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal (SENDIST) enables parents to take proceedings against schools which they believe may have contravened the act. The tribunal has power to order a number of things from compelling the school to take certain remedial action or to issue an apology.
What can the Disability Tribunal Do to help?
In certain cases it may order the school to ensure that staff members go on suitable training courses to avoid any repetition of the behaviour.
Does the special needs and disability tribunal award compensation? If not where can I go?
The disability tribunal (SEND ) does not award compensation. In circumstances when compensation is claimed a case should be brought in the County Court . There are however time limits that must be observed. If you feel you have been discriminated against you may wish to speak to one of our specialist disability solicitor advisors.