The SEND Navigate Library · EHCP guidance for parents in England
The Parent’s Shield
Understand the EHCP process before deciding what help you need.
By Stephen Mallett, former Headteacher and SENCo, with 25 years in education and experience as a parent of two children with SEN.
This book is an optional starting point for understanding SEN and EHCP questions. You can read independently, use the free resources on this site or talk to Stephen about your situation.
Prices, edition details and availability are shown by Amazon. Buying or reading the book is not required before a call.
A practical introduction to an unfamiliar process
EHCP applications, local-authority decisions and annual reviews involve unfamiliar language and paperwork. The Parent’s Shield explains the EHCP journey in plain English, with practical approaches to preparing information and understanding next steps.
The book covers EHCP requests and reviews, correspondence and evidence preparation, and SEND Tribunal preparation. It is written for parents navigating the SEND system in England; different legal systems apply elsewhere in the UK.
A book cannot review your child’s evidence, establish your individual legal position or guarantee provision. Use current official guidance for procedure and deadlines, and seek appropriate individual advice when needed.
What a reader said about the book
“Informative, practical, and easy to read, this is a highly recommended resource for anyone seeking to better understand and support children with SEND.”
Ryan.O, Amazon book review, 8 June 2026. Read the review on Amazon.
This is a reader’s opinion of the book, not evidence of consultancy outcomes or a guarantee for another family.
You can start with a book — or with a conversation
If you want help applying general information to the issue you are facing, Stephen offers a free 30-minute consultation plus a written next-step summary. Tell him whether the local authority has refused to assess, refused to issue an EHCP, or whether an existing plan or school support is the concern.
The short summary, normally one to two pages, is based on the discussion only. It records the issue you described, up to three practical next steps or questions, relevant resources and whether further scoped support could help. Delivery timing is agreed on the call.
It is not a document audit, legal merits opinion, drafted letter, appeal-grounds service or ongoing casework. Detailed document reviews are separately agreed paid work. Read the full free-summary scope.
There is no automatic upgrade or obligation to buy. See current consultancy services and fees if you want to understand the paid options.
Free information for your next step
EHC needs assessment refused · Assessed but refused an EHCP · EHCP refusal and appeal guide · Free EHCP checklist, no signup required.
If school attendance and distress are the main issue, explore school-distress and EBSA support and Stephen’s other book, Not Refusing. Unable..
Do not wait for a book or appointment if a deadline is approaching
Booking a consultation does not pause any deadline or appoint SEND Navigate to manage your case. Check GOV.UK’s current appeal guidance, and seek timely help where necessary. Free independent guidance is available through IPSEA and local SENDIASS services.