From understanding EHCPs to finding financial support, we've gathered the most useful guides, tools, and resources — written with parent carers in mind.
You shouldn't have to piece this together alone. Whether you're just starting out or deep in the process, these resources are written just for you.
A helpful guide from Luton Council
Did you know that your child doesn't need a formal diagnosis or an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) before their school can begin providing additional support?
Luton Council's Ordinarily Available Inclusive Provision (OAIP) guide explains the support and adjustments that mainstream schools and educational settings should ordinarily provide for children and young people, including those with SEND.
Why might you find this useful?
Whether your child is struggling with learning, communication, friendships, sensory needs or other aspects of school life, this guide can help you:
You don't need to read the whole document! Start with the sections that matter most to your child.
Remember, every child's needs are different. Understanding what support is available is a positive first step towards helping your child thrive.
Read Luton Council's OAIP Guide (PDF)Produced by Luton Council and shared by The Chance Hub to help parents and carers find useful information.
What support could your child receive at nursery or preschool?
The OAIP guidance above covers school-age children — but the same principles apply from the very start. If your child is in a nursery or preschool setting, this companion guide explains what support should already be available to them.
Are you concerned about your young child's development, communication, learning or behaviour? Perhaps you've noticed that your child needs a little extra help, but you're unsure what support is available or who to speak to.
You don't have to wait for a diagnosis before asking for support.
Luton Council has produced a helpful guide called Ordinarily Available Inclusive Provision: Early Years Supplementary Guidance. It explains the everyday support and approaches that early years settings can use to help children with SEND or additional needs.
Why might you find this guide useful?
It can help you:
A little encouragement from The Chance Hub
You know your child in ways that others may not. You notice their interests, their strengths, the things they find difficult — and those little achievements that mean so much.
Your observations matter. This guide can help you have conversations with your child's early years setting about the support that may help them learn, develop and enjoy their early experiences.
Remember, every child is different, and every little step forward deserves to be celebrated.
Produced by Luton Council and shared by The Chance Hub to help parents and carers access useful information and support.
Plain-English explanations of the things that matter most.
We do our best to check that the information in these guides is accurate and up to date — but guidance and legislation can change. Please always check the official government website and other official sources to confirm the latest position.
An Education, Health and Care Plan is a legal document that sets out your child's needs and the support they must receive. This guide explains what it covers, who it's for, and how to request one.
Once you've requested an assessment, the local authority has 20 weeks to complete the process. This guide walks you through each stage — what happens, what you'll be asked, and how to make your voice heard.
EHCPs are divided into sections A to K. Some sections are more important than others. This guide explains what each section means — and which ones you need to scrutinise most carefully.
Before an EHCP is in place, schools are expected to support children through a cycle of Assess, Plan, Do, Review. This guide explains what that looks like in practice — and what to do if it isn't happening.
The Annual Review is your chance to shape your child's EHCP. This guide helps you prepare — what to bring, what to say, and how to challenge anything you disagree with.
Mainstream, specialist, DSP, special school — the options can feel confusing. This guide explains the differences and how to request a particular school in your child's EHCP.
If your local authority refuses to assess, issue an EHCP, or names the wrong school, you have the right to appeal. This guide explains your options — from mediation to the SEND Tribunal.
The SEND Code of Practice gives parents and carers significant rights. This guide covers the key ones — including the right to be involved, the right to request assessments, and the right to appeal.
Disability Living Allowance (for under 16s) and Personal Independence Payment (for 16+) can make a real difference to family life. This guide explains who qualifies, how to apply, and what to do if you're refused.
If you spend significant time caring for your child, you may be entitled to Carer's Allowance and other support. This guide explains what's available and how to access it.
The transition to secondary school can be one of the most anxious times for families. This guide covers what good transition planning looks like and how to make sure your child's needs are met from day one.
From age 14, EHCPs should include a focus on preparing for adulthood — education, employment, independent living, and community participation. This guide explains what that means and how to plan ahead.
Our A–Z Jargon Busters explains every acronym and phrase in plain English — with what it actually means for your family.
There are a number of cards and schemes that can save your family money on days out, cinema trips, activities, and more. Many are free or low cost to apply for — and well worth having.
Free cinema ticket for a carer
The CEA Card entitles a disabled cinema-goer to one free ticket for the person who accompanies them. Accepted at most major cinema chains across the UK. Apply online with evidence of disability benefit.
Disabled people in receipt of a qualifying disability benefit
£6.50 per year
Access local support and discounts
Luton Council's Disability Register connects disabled residents and their families to local support, services, and discounts. Registration is free and voluntary.
Disabled residents of Luton
Free
Reduced leisure centre access
Luton residents with a disability or long-term health condition may be eligible for reduced-price access to Luton's leisure centres and swimming pools.
Luton residents with a disability or long-term health condition
Reduced rate
Proof of disability for discounts
A nationally recognised card that provides proof of disability and access to discounts at hundreds of participating businesses across the UK.
People with a disability or long-term health condition
Free
Discreet support for hidden disabilities
The Sunflower lanyard is a discreet way to let staff know you or your child has a hidden disability and may need extra time, assistance, or understanding.
Anyone with a hidden disability
Free
Access to locked accessible toilets
The RADAR key opens over 9,000 locked accessible toilets across the UK. Essential for families whose child has continence needs or requires accessible facilities.
Disabled people and their carers
~£5 one-off
Venue access needs at a glance
The Access Card translates your disability or access needs into a set of symbols that venues can understand quickly — helping you get the right support at events, attractions, and venues.
Disabled people with access needs
£15 for 3 years
Parking closer to where you need to be
The Blue Badge scheme allows disabled people and their carers to park closer to their destination. Children with certain conditions, including some with SEND, may qualify.
People with a severe mobility problem or certain hidden disabilities
Up to £10 in England
Access needs passport for events
Nimbus Disability provides an Access Card and works with venues to ensure disabled people get the adjustments they need. Particularly useful for concerts, festivals, and large events.
Disabled people with access needs
£15 for 3 years
Support and discounts for unpaid carers
The Carer's Trust supports unpaid carers across the UK, including parent carers. Local networks may offer discounts, respite, and wellbeing support.
Unpaid carers including parent carers
Free to access
Found a discount scheme that's made a difference to your family? Share it here — your tip could help another parent save money or access something brilliant.
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Trusted external resources — charities, legal advisors, and support organisations.
Free, legally based advice on special educational needs and disabilities.
Free helpline and support for families navigating the SEND system.
Support for families with disabled children — benefits, education, and more.
The statutory guidance that schools, councils, and health services must follow.
Advice, support, and information for autistic people and their families.
Support and information for people with ADHD and their families.
Information and support for families affected by Pathological Demand Avoidance.
Mental health support for children, young people, and their parents.
Our 'Find your way around' guide walks you through everything The Chance Hub has to offer — step by step.
Find your way around