Completing and submitting the appeal form

Completing and submitting the appeal form

person filling in form

The SEND35/a form tells the tribunal exactly what you are appealing and what you want changed. Without this form, your appeal cannot begin.

This is where you explain clearly:

  • what you disagree with
  • why you disagree
  • what you want the tribunal to change

What happens - step-by-step

  1. find the form on the tribunal website
    • SEND35 — appealing EHCP content or cease to maintain, or refusal to issue
    • SEND35a — appealing a refusal to assess
  2. you can download the form and email it back, or complete the appeal form online
  3. complete the form (include your child’s details, the decision you’re appealing and your reasons) 
  4. Follow these instructions on how to complete the form
  5. attach any evidence you already have (reports, letters, assessments, emails)
  6. check everything carefully (make sure names, dates and sections are correct)
  7. submit the form
  8. tribunal confirms receipt 

Key timescales

the form must be submitted within 2 months of the LA’s decision orwithin 1 month of the mediation certificate (whichever is later)

What you need to do

  • download or request the form
  • complete all sections clearly
  • attach any evidence you already have
  • check the deadlines
  • keep copies of everything you send

Who is responsible?

You: complete and submit the form
Tribunal: confirm receipt and start the appeal process

Useful links

Documents to keep safe

  • a copy of your completed form
  • confirmation from the tribunal
  • any evidence you submitted
  • notes of deadlines and next steps

FAQs

Who can register the appeal? For children under the age of 16, parents or anyone with parental responsibility have the right to register an appeal. This includes foster parents, grandparents, or other carers who the child lives with. For young people aged 16 - 25, the young person themselves must register the appeal, provided they have the mental capacity to make decisions relating to their case. If they are unable to make these decisions under the Mental Capacity Act 2005, a parent or another representative can appeal on their behalf

What if I miss the deadline? You can explain the circumstances that have led to you missing the deadline to appeal, and ask the Tribunal if they will accept a late appeal.  This is not guaranteed.

What if I don’t have all the evidence yet? You can send additional evidence later.

Tips

  • start early
  • use simple, clear explanations
  • keep everything in one place
  • you don’t need legal language — the tribunal understands families