SEND Experts at Hand is an independent special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) consultancy. It was founded by Jenny Higham, a teacher of more than 25 years who has spent 16 years in SEND advisory roles, including four years leading the Early Years SEND Advisory Team at Bedford Borough Council.
The service exists to help families through a system that can feel confusing from the outside, and to explain it plainly, without jargon. Jenny works with a group of associates that includes educational psychologists, speech and language therapists, paediatric physiotherapists and former headteachers, so more complex questions can draw on more than one professional's view.
What they offer families
- a free initial phone call to talk through your situation
- in-depth advisory sessions, by video call or in person
- help preparing for school meetings, and support at those meetings
- guidance on Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and assessments
- support after a diagnosis, including what it may mean at school
- help finding and applying for funding
- one-to-one sessions on routines and behaviour at home
- a growing library of short, practical guides for families
They also work with nurseries and schools, offering training and consultancy.
Who it may suit
This may suit you if your child has a diagnosis, or is waiting for one, and you're not sure what support they're entitled to at school or how to ask for it. It can be particularly useful before an important meeting, or when you're starting the EHCP process and want someone experienced on your side.
How it works
Advice and support are available online anywhere in England. In-person and home sessions are offered in Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire, Cambridgeshire and Milton Keynes. You can get in touch through the contact form on their website or by email.
