LETTER TEMPLATES - SCHOOL

I would like to emphasise that it is not me, as the parent, who is preventing my child from receiving an education. Rather, it is their debilitating anxiety and associated needs, which require appropriate understanding and support.

I am aware that the Education Act 1996, Section 19, states that when a child cannot attend school due to illness (including mental health conditions), the Local Authority has a duty to ensure they receive suitable education. I also understand that schools have a duty under the Equality Act 2010 to make reasonable adjustments for pupils with disabilities, including those whose mental health substantially affects their ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.

Additionally, the SEND Code of Practice (2015) explains that children’s needs may fall under:

1. Communication and interaction

2. Cognition and learning

3. Social, emotional and mental health

4. Sensory and/or physical needs

Given my child’s current difficulties, I would like to meet to discuss the support available. This may include an official needs assessment, reasonable adjustments, or a reduced timetable where appropriate, to help my child begin rebuilding confidence and coping with their condition. Working together will allow us to provide consistent support and help them feel safe.

If you would like further information on School Refusal, there is a growing body of guidance available, including through School Refusal Support Services, which I am now part of. Their website contains helpful information for both parents and professionals:

www.schoolrefusal.online

I kindly request that we arrange a meeting as soon as possible to discuss a plan for supporting my child’s education, ensuring their needs are recognised and the appropriate steps are taken.

Yours faithfully,

__________________________________

(Signature)

Relevant Legislation & Guidance:

- Education Act 1996 – Section 19

- Equality Act 2010 – Sections 6 & 20

- SEND Code of Practice (2015)

- Children & Families Act 2014 – Sections 19 & 36

- Children Act 1989 – Section 17

Letter 2: Use if you feel they are ignoring that this is a Mental Health Issue

Your Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Postcode

Date: _______________________

School Name

School Address

Postcode

Dear Sir/Madam,

Re: (Child’s name and date of birth)

Notification of Mental Health Difficulties

(If awaiting diagnosis, you may write: “Undiagnosed – awaiting assessment appointment.”)

I am writing as the parent of the above child to request that my (son/daughter)’s mental health difficulties are acknowledged and that appropriate adjustments are made in line with the Equality Act 2010.

My child is experiencing significant anxiety which is impacting their ability to attend school. This level of anxiety results in both emotional and physical responses that are outside of their control. For many children, including mine, this may involve panic, distress, freezing, or physically resisting entry to school. In our situation, what happens is:

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

I have sought medical support for my child. We have contacted our GP and, where applicable, we are awaiting involvement from CAMHS or other mental health professionals. We understand that treatment and recovery may take time, and that gentle, consistent support from both home and school is essential.

My child’s symptoms include:

(Parents may list symptoms such as: nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, sleep disturbances, panic attacks, distress, low mood, depression, stomach pain, or any other relevant symptoms.)

I am aware that School Refusal and high anxiety can be linked to underlying needs such as Autistic Spectrum Condition, sensory processing difficulties, or other neurodevelopmental differences. Anxiety itself can also meet the definition of a disability under the Equality Act 2010, where it has a substantial and long-term impact on normal daily activities, such as attending school.

I have previously spoken with the school regarding these difficulties. The details of this communication are:

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________



I would like to request that school policies are applied flexibly, and that reasonable adjustments are considered to support my child. This may include reduced expectations around attendance, provision of work for home, supportive communication strategies, or any other adjustments recommended by professionals.

My aim is to work collaboratively with the school so that my child can feel safe, understood, and supported, without additional pressure that may worsen their mental health. Attendance threats or punitive approaches are not appropriate for a child experiencing a mental health condition and can significantly increase anxiety.

I would therefore appreciate a meeting to discuss a supportive plan for my child, including any reasonable adjustments and next steps.

Thank you for your time and support.

Yours sincerely,

__________________________________

(Sign and print your name)

Copies sent to (optional):

• Local Authority

• School Governors

• GP

• CAMHS

Relevant Legislation & Guidance:

- Education Act 1996 – Section 19

- Equality Act 2010 – Sections 6 & 20

- SEN Code of Practice (2015)

- Children & Families Act 2014 – Sections 19 & 36

- Children Act 1989 – Section 17

Letter 3: This Letter is in response to Prosecution / Attendance Threats

Your Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Postcode

Date: _______________________

School Name

School Address

Postcode

Dear Sir/Madam,

Re: (Child’s name and date of birth)

Prosecution Threats Regarding Declining Attendance

I am writing as the parent of the above child to formally address the recent attendance-related threats issued to us. As you already know, my (son/daughter) is experiencing significant mental health difficulties, including severe anxiety consistent with School Refusal. These difficulties are debilitating and directly impact (his/her) ability to attend school.

School Refusal is a recognised presentation of extreme anxiety. For many children, including my own, this results in overwhelming panic, distress, and physical reactions when faced with the prospect of attending school. These responses are not behavioural choices but the result of a genuine mental health condition. In our situation, what happens is:

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

I have kept the school informed of these difficulties and have provided updates wherever possible. We have also sought medical support, including contact with our GP and mental health services such as CAMHS (where applicable). Despite this, the school’s response has been to issue warnings or threats regarding attendance.



Such an approach does not recognise or support my child’s mental health needs. Pressure, punitive responses, or threats can significantly worsen a child’s anxiety and may cause further deterioration in their wellbeing. It is important to acknowledge that when a child’s mental health prevents attendance, this is not ‘parentally condoned absence’; it is a disability-related barrier.

The Equality Act 2010 requires schools to make reasonable adjustments for pupils whose mental health difficulties have a substantial and long-term impact on their ability to carry out normal day‑to‑day activities. Anxiety of this severity can fall under this definition. Schools also have a duty to avoid discrimination arising from disability and must consider flexibility when applying policies such as attendance procedures.

Furthermore, the Education Act 1996 (Section 19) states that children who cannot attend school because of illness, including mental health difficulties, should receive suitable education provided by the Local Authority. Threats of prosecution do not align with the legal duties owed to children who are unwell.

I am concerned that the current approach is not taking my child’s mental health into account appropriately and is increasing our distress at an already difficult time. I am asking the school to pause all attendance-related threats and instead work with us constructively. I would appreciate reasonable adjustments, understanding, and a supportive plan that acknowledges my child’s needs rather than escalating pressure.

I request a meeting as soon as possible so we can discuss a supportive approach, agree reasonable adjustments, and ensure my child’s needs are recognised in line with the Equality Act and SEND guidance.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to working together in a way that supports my child’s wellbeing and restores a positive relationship with the school.

Yours sincerely,

__________________________________

(Sign and print your name)

Copies sent to (optional):

• Local Authority

• School Governors

• GP

• CAMHS

Relevant Legislation & Guidance:

- Education Act 1996 – Section 19

- Equality Act 2010 – Sections 6, 20 & 21

- SEND Code of Practice (2015)

- Children & Families Act 2014 – Sections 19 & 36

- Children Act 1989 – Section 17

Letter 4: Formal Escalation

Your Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Postcode

Date: _______________________

Headteacher / SENCO Name

School Name

School Address

Postcode

Dear [Headteacher/SENCO],

Re: (Child’s name and date of birth)

Formal Escalation – Request for Senior Leadership Intervention

I am writing to escalate concerns regarding the ongoing difficulties my (son/daughter) is experiencing with school attendance due to significant mental health needs, and the lack of appropriate support or adjustments provided so far.

My child is experiencing severe anxiety, consistent with School Refusal, which is a recognised mental health difficulty that affects a child’s ability to attend school. This level of anxiety leads to overwhelming emotional and physical responses which are outside of my child’s control. In our situation, what happens is:

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

I have made previous attempts to communicate these concerns to staff. Unfortunately, despite sharing medical information and updates, the support offered has been limited, and on some occasions, responses have increased my child’s distress. It is now necessary to request senior leadership involvement to ensure that my child’s needs are properly recognised and supported.

The Equality Act 2010 requires the school to make reasonable adjustments for pupils whose mental health difficulties have a substantial and long-term impact on their daily functioning. Anxiety of this severity can fall under the definition of disability, and policies—including attendance procedures—must be applied flexibly to avoid disadvantage.

Furthermore, the SEND Code of Practice (2015) makes it clear that children may require adjustments under the category of Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. Schools are expected to take a graduated, supportive approach and to work collaboratively with families.



At this stage, I am requesting:

• A meeting with senior leadership and the SENCO

• A supportive plan that acknowledges my child’s mental health needs

• Consideration of reasonable adjustments, such as reduced expectations, a temporary adjusted timetable, supportive transitions, or home learning where appropriate

• A clear record of how the school will support my child moving forward

My aim is to work constructively with the school to ensure my child feels safe, understood, and supported. Escalation is not my preference, but given the lack of progress so far, senior leadership involvement is now essential.

I would appreciate confirmation of a meeting date within the next 10 school days.

Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.

Yours sincerely,

__________________________________

(Sign and print your name)

Copies sent to (optional):

• Local Authority

• School Governors

• GP

• CAMHS

Relevant Legislation & Guidance:

- Education Act 1996 – Section 19

- Equality Act 2010 – Sections 6, 20 & 21

- SEND Code of Practice (2015)

- Children & Families Act 2014 – Sections 19 & 36

- Children Act 1989 – Section 17

Letter 5: Complaint to Govenors

Your Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Postcode

Date: _______________________

Chair of Governors / Trust Complaints Team

School Name

School Address

Postcode

Dear Sir/Madam,

Re: Formal Complaint – (Child’s name and date of birth)

I am submitting this formal complaint regarding the school’s handling of my (son/daughter)’s mental health needs and the lack of appropriate support in relation to their difficulties attending school. Despite multiple attempts to communicate concerns and provide medical information, the school’s response has not aligned with statutory duties or good practice.

My child is experiencing severe anxiety consistent with School Refusal, which significantly impacts their ability to attend school. The physical and emotional symptoms they experience are genuine, distressing, and outside of their control. These difficulties meet the definition of disability under the Equality Act 2010 where they have a substantial and long-term impact.

I have informed the school about:

• My child’s anxiety and mental health difficulties

• Symptoms that prevent school attendance

• Updates from professionals (GP/CAMHS where applicable)

• Requests for reasonable adjustments and support

However, the responses from the school have included inadequate support, inflexible application of policies, and in some instances, pressure and attendance-related warnings which have worsened my child’s anxiety.

The areas of concern include (parents may complete):

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________



These actions or omissions have impacted my child’s wellbeing and may constitute a failure to meet the school’s duties under the Equality Act 2010 and the SEND Code of Practice (2015). Policies must be applied flexibly where disability or mental health difficulties significantly affect attendance. Additionally, the Education Act 1996 (Section 19) places a duty on the Local Authority to provide suitable education for children unable to attend due to illness.

I therefore request that this complaint is investigated fully and independently in accordance with the school’s complaints policy. I also request a written response outlining:

• The findings of the investigation

• Any actions to be taken

• How the school will support my child going forward

• What reasonable adjustments will be implemented

I would like this matter to be escalated appropriately within the governing body or trust, and if unresolved, I reserve the right to escalate this complaint to the Local Authority, and where necessary, the Department for Education.

Please confirm receipt of this complaint and provide an estimated timescale for the investigation.

Yours sincerely,

__________________________________

(Sign and print your name)

Copies sent to (optional):

• Local Authority

• School Leadership

• GP

• CAMHS

Relevant Legislation & Guidance:

- Education Act 1996 – Section 19

- Equality Act 2010 – Sections 6, 20 & 21

- SEND Code of Practice (2015)

- Children & Families Act 2014 – Sections 19 & 36

- Children Act 1989 – Section 17

Letter 6: Escalation to Local Authority (Section 19 failure / safeguarding impact)

Your Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Postcode

Date: _______________________

Local Authority Attendance / Education Welfare Team

Local Authority Name

Address

Postcode

Dear Sir/Madam,

Re: Escalation – (Child’s name and date of birth)

Request for Local Authority Intervention – Failure to Meet Section 19 Duties

I am writing to request urgent Local Authority involvement regarding the lack of appropriate support for my (son/daughter), whose severe anxiety and mental health difficulties are preventing attendance at school. Despite informing the school of these difficulties, and despite attempts to work collaboratively, the support offered has not been sufficient to enable access to education.

My child is currently too unwell to attend school. Their symptoms include:

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

They are under medical care / awaiting referral (delete as appropriate). We have sought input from our GP, and where applicable, CAMHS or other professionals. My child’s presentation is consistent with School Refusal – a recognised indicator of severe mental health distress and anxiety.



I have made the school aware of these difficulties, but the level of support has not improved sufficiently. The ongoing distress is having a significant impact on my child’s wellbeing, and school-based pressure or attendance threats have worsened their anxiety.

Under the Education Act 1996, Section 19, the Local Authority has a legal duty to ensure that children who cannot attend school because of illness (including mental health conditions) receive suitable full-time education. As my child is currently unable to attend, I am requesting that the LA now fulfils its statutory duty.

I am asking the Local Authority to:

• Acknowledge that my child is medically unable to attend school at present

• Provide suitable alternative education under Section 19

• Liaise with the school to ensure my child’s mental health needs are recognised

• Support a phased, safe, and well-managed plan for reintegration when appropriate

This situation is now affecting my child’s wellbeing and their right to suitable education. A coordinated response between the Local Authority and the school is required urgently.

Please confirm receipt of this letter and advise on next steps. I request a written response within 10 school days.

Yours sincerely,

__________________________________

(Sign and print your name)

Copies sent to:

• School Leadership

• SENCO

• GP

• CAMHS

Relevant Legislation & Guidance:

- Education Act 1996 – Section 19

- Equality Act 2010 – Sections 6, 20 & 21

- SEND Code of Practice (2015)

- Children & Families Act 2014 – Sections 19 & 36

- Children Act 1989 – Section 17

Letter 7: Challenging Attendance Warnings / Penalty Notices

Your Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Postcode

Date: _______________________

School Attendance / Education Welfare Officer

School Name / Local Authority

Address

Postcode

Dear Sir/Madam,

Re: (Child’s name and date of birth)

Challenging Attendance Warning / Penalty Notice Threat

I am writing regarding the attendance warning / Penalty Notice threat issued in relation to my (son/daughter)’s recent absence from school. I dispute this warning on the basis that my child is currently experiencing significant mental health difficulties which prevent school attendance.

My child is suffering with severe anxiety consistent with School Refusal. This is a recognised mental health difficulty, and the symptoms they experience are genuine, overwhelming, and outside of their control. In our situation, what happens is:

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

I have informed the school of these difficulties and have been updating them regarding medical involvement. We have sought support from our GP and, where appropriate, CAMHS or other professionals. My child is not refusing to attend school out of choice; they are too unwell to attend.

Under the Equality Act 2010, mental health difficulties that have a substantial and long-term effect on a child’s ability to carry out normal daily activities can amount to a disability. Schools and Local Authorities have a legal duty to avoid discrimination and apply policies flexibly in such cases.



Additionally, the Education Act 1996, Section 19, places a duty on the Local Authority to provide suitable education for children unable to attend due to illness, including mental health conditions. Issuing attendance warnings in these circumstances does not align with statutory guidance or good practice.

I therefore request that this attendance warning / Penalty Notice threat is withdrawn immediately, and that my child’s absence is authorised on the grounds of illness. Further punitive approaches would only worsen my child’s mental health and increase family distress.

I continue to be willing to work with the school to support my child’s wellbeing and access to education, but this must be done in a way that acknowledges their current mental health difficulties and avoids unnecessary escalation.

Please confirm in writing that this warning has been withdrawn.

Yours sincerely,

__________________________________

(Sign and print your name)

Copies sent to:

• School Leadership

• SENCO

• GP

• CAMHS

• Local Authority (if not already addressed to them)

Relevant Legislation & Guidance:

- Education Act 1996 – Section 19

- Equality Act 2010 – Sections 6, 20 & 21

- SEND Code of Practice (2015)

- Children & Families Act 2014 – Sections 19 & 36

Letter 8: Request for Reasonable Adjustments (Equality Act)

Your Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Postcode

Date: _______________________

Headteacher / SENCO

School Name

School Address

Postcode

Dear [Headteacher/SENCO],

Re: (Child’s name and date of birth)

Request for Reasonable Adjustments Under the Equality Act 2010

I am writing to formally request reasonable adjustments for my (son/daughter), who is currently experiencing significant mental health difficulties, including severe anxiety consistent with School Refusal. These difficulties have a substantial and long-term impact on their ability to attend school and participate in daily activities. As such, they may meet the definition of disability under the Equality Act 2010.

My child’s difficulties include:

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

These symptoms are genuine, distressing, and outside of my child’s control. They indicate that attendance pressures, rigid expectations, or punitive responses are unsuitable and risk worsening their mental health.

Under Section 6 of the Equality Act 2010, a disability is defined as a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term effect on a person’s ability to carry out normal day‑to‑day activities. Severe anxiety of this nature can fall under this definition. The Act also requires the school to make reasonable adjustments to prevent pupils with disabilities being placed at a substantial disadvantage.

The SEND Code of Practice (2015) also highlights the need for schools to take a graduated and supportive approach for children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.



I am therefore requesting that the following reasonable adjustments are considered and implemented to support my child:

• Flexibility with attendance requirements and reduced pressure around attendance expectations

• Permission for supported, gradual re‑entry or partial attendance where appropriate

• Access to a quiet, safe space during transitions or when overwhelmed

• Adjusted workload or home learning where attendance is not possible

• Emotional support from a trusted adult

• Clear communication methods that reduce anxiety

• Any additional adjustments recommended by professionals

I would appreciate a meeting to discuss these adjustments in more detail and to create a supportive plan tailored to my child’s needs.

Please provide written confirmation of the adjustments the school can offer, along with a timescale for implementation.

Thank you for your time and cooperation.

Yours sincerely,

__________________________________

(Sign and print your name)

Copies sent to (optional):

• Local Authority

• School Governors

• GP

• CAMHS

Relevant Legislation & Guidance:

- Equality Act 2010 – Sections 6, 20 & 21

- SEND Code of Practice (2015)

- Children & Families Act 2014 – Sections 19 & 36

- Education Act 1996 – Section 19 (where attendance is not possible)

Letter 9: EHCP Needs Assessment Request

I believe that my child may require special educational provision beyond what the school is ordinarily able to provide. Therefore, in accordance with the Children and Families Act 2014, I am requesting that the Local Authority carries out an EHC Needs Assessment.

Please find enclosed any relevant evidence I have available at this time, including:

• Medical letters (GP/CAMHS where applicable)

• School reports or communication

• SEN Support documentation (if available)

• Any other supporting information

I understand that the Local Authority is required to respond to this request within six weeks, as outlined in the SEND regulations.

I kindly request written confirmation that this request has been received, and that the statutory assessment process will now begin.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Yours sincerely,

__________________________________

(Sign and print your name)

Copies sent to:

• School SENCO

• Headteacher

• GP

• CAMHS

Relevant Legislation & Guidance:

- Children & Families Act 2014 – Section 36(1)

- SEND Code of Practice (2015)

- Equality Act 2010

- Education Act 1996 – Section 19 (where attendance is affected)

Letter 10: Child Too Unwell to Attend (Medical Evidence + Section 19 request)

Your Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Postcode

Date: _______________________

School Name / Headteacher

School Address

Postcode

Dear [Headteacher/SENCO],

Re: (Child’s name and date of birth)

Notification that Child is Too Unwell to Attend School

Request for Authorised Absence and Section 19 Provision

I am writing to formally notify the school that my (son/daughter) is currently too unwell to attend school due to significant mental health difficulties. My child is experiencing severe anxiety consistent with School Refusal, which is a recognised mental health presentation involving extreme emotional and physical distress.

My child’s symptoms include:

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

These symptoms are genuine, overwhelming, and outside of my child’s control. Attendance at this time would be inappropriate and may worsen their condition. We have contacted our GP and, where applicable, are awaiting support from CAMHS or other mental health professionals.

In accordance with government guidance, absence due to illness— including mental health difficulties—should be authorised. I therefore request that all absences related to my child’s mental health are recorded as authorised illness.

Furthermore, I would like to draw your attention to the Education Act 1996, Section 19, which states that the Local Authority must provide suitable education for children who are unable to attend school because of illness. As my child is currently too unwell to attend, I request that the school liaises with the Local Authority to ensure that appropriate alternative provision is arranged.

Suitable provision may include:

• Home learning materials

• Online learning

• Virtual sessions with a teacher

• Reduced expectations, where appropriate

• Any provision recommended by medical professionals

I will continue to keep the school updated and will work collaboratively to support my child's recovery. However, attending school in their current condition is not possible and would not be in their best interests.

Please confirm in writing:

• That absences will be authorised due to illness

• That the school will liaise with the Local Authority regarding Section 19 provision

• What support can be put in place during this period of absence

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Yours sincerely,

__________________________________

(Sign and print your name)

Copies sent to:

• Local Authority

• SENCO

• GP

• CAMHS

Relevant Legislation & Guidance:

- Education Act 1996 – Section 19

- Equality Act 2010

- SEND Code of Practice (2015)

- Children & Families Act 2014 – Sections 19 & 36

Letter 11: Challenge Incorrect Attendance Codes

Your Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Postcode

Date: _______________________

School Attendance Officer / Headteacher

School Name

School Address

Postcode

Dear [Headteacher/SENCO/Attendance Officer],

Re: (Child’s name and date of birth)

Formal Request to Correct Attendance Codes

I am writing to request that my (son/daughter)’s recent absences are reviewed and that incorrect attendance codes are amended. My child is currently experiencing significant mental health difficulties, including severe anxiety consistent with School Refusal, which prevents them from attending school at this time.

My child’s symptoms include:

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

These difficulties are genuine, overwhelming, and outside of my child’s control. My child is not refusing to attend out of choice; they are too unwell to attend. We have contacted our GP, and where applicable, we are awaiting support from CAMHS or other mental health professionals.

Absence due to illness, including mental health conditions, should be recorded as authorised illness. Incorrect coding – such as using unauthorised absence codes – does not reflect my child’s medical needs and causes unnecessary distress for our family.

Letter 12: Complaint About Harmful School Practices

Your Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Postcode

Date: _______________________

Headteacher / Chair of Governors

School Name

School Address

Postcode

Dear [Headteacher/Chair of Governors],

Re: (Child’s name and date of birth)

Formal Complaint – Harmful School Practices Impacting a Child’s Mental Health

I am submitting this formal complaint regarding the handling of my (son/daughter)’s mental health needs and the practices within the school that are causing, or have the potential to cause, further harm and distress.

My child is experiencing significant mental health difficulties, including severe anxiety consistent with School Refusal. These difficulties are genuine, overwhelming, and directly impact their ability to attend and engage in school. In our situation, the symptoms include:

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

Despite informing the school, sharing updates, and seeking professional support (GP/CAMHS where applicable), I am concerned that certain actions or responses from staff have increased my child’s anxiety and negatively affected their wellbeing. This includes:

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

These practices are not consistent with a trauma-informed, supportive, or child-centred approach. They have contributed to an escalation in my child’s distress and may amount to a failure to make reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010, where mental health difficulties may be considered a disability.

The SEND Code of Practice (2015) outlines the importance of understanding underlying needs, including Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH), and working collaboratively with families to reduce barriers to learning. Current approaches taken by the school do not appear to reflect this guidance.

Furthermore, policies such as behaviour management and attendance must be applied flexibly and with consideration of a child’s disability or mental health condition. A rigid or punitive application of policy risks placing my child at a substantial disadvantage, which may constitute discrimination arising from disability.

I am therefore requesting that:

• This complaint is investigated fully in line with the school’s complaints policy

• Staff involved receive appropriate guidance or training where needed

• A plan is put in place to prevent further harm to my child

• Reasonable adjustments are considered and implemented

• A senior member of staff oversees my child’s case to ensure safeguarding of mental health

I respectfully request a written response confirming the outcome of the investigation, the actions to be taken, and how the school intends to support my child moving forward.

Yours sincerely,

__________________________________

(Sign and print your name)

Copies sent to:

• Local Authority

• SENCO

• GP

• CAMHS

• School Governors

Relevant Legislation & Guidance:

- Equality Act 2010 – Sections 6, 20 & 21

- SEND Code of Practice (2015)

- Children & Families Act 2014 – Sections 19 & 36

- Education Act 1996 – Section 19 (where illness prevents attendance)

Letter 13: Withdrawal of Consent for Physical Force / Physical Prompting

Your Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Postcode

Date: _______________________

Headteacher

School Name

School Address

Postcode

Dear Headteacher,

Re: (Child’s name and date of birth)

Withdrawal of Consent for Physical Force, Physical Prompting, or Persuasion

I am writing to formally withdraw my consent for any member of staff to use physical force, physical prompting, or physical persuasion to make my (son/daughter) attend school, enter the building, transition between areas, or comply with instructions.

My child is currently experiencing significant mental health difficulties, including severe anxiety consistent with School Refusal. When placed under pressure or physical prompting, my child experiences extreme distress. This response is not behavioural; it is a genuine and overwhelming mental health reaction.

In our situation, what happens is:

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

Any form of physical prompting, force, or attempts to ‘guide’ my child into school risks causing serious emotional harm. It also increases their anxiety, making recovery and reintegration significantly harder.

Additionally, I do not consent to staff attempting to ‘pull’, ‘push’, ‘lift’, ‘guide by the arm’, ‘escort physically’, or otherwise apply physical pressure to my child during moments of distress or refusal.

Using physical contact in this context may place my child at risk and may be inconsistent with safeguarding duties. It is also incompatible with a trauma-informed approach and may amount to discrimination arising from disability under the Equality Act 2010.

I request that all staff are informed of this withdrawal of consent immediately and that this is added to my child’s records, including pastoral notes, behaviour logs, and safeguarding files.

I am not opposing supportive emotional regulation strategies. My child may benefit from:

• A trusted adult for reassurance

• Space and time to calm down

• Reduced pressure around attendance

• Flexibility in transitions and expectations

These approaches are appropriate and consistent with good practice for supporting children with severe anxiety.

I request written confirmation that:

• All staff have been made aware of this withdrawal of consent

• No physical force or prompting will be used

• Supportive, non‑physical approaches will be used instead

Thank you for your cooperation in safeguarding my child’s wellbeing.

Yours sincerely,

__________________________________

(Sign and print your name)

Copies sent to:

• SENCO

• School Governors

• Local Authority

• GP

• CAMHS

Relevant Legislation & Guidance:

- Equality Act 2010 – Sections 6, 20 & 21

- SEND Code of Practice (2015)

- Children Act 1989 – Section 17 (child in need)

- Education Act 1996 – Section 19 (where illness prevents attendance)

Letter 14: Mental Health Decline: Request for Safety Planning

Your Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Postcode

Date: _______________________

Headteacher / SENCO / Mental Health Lead

School Name

School Address

Postcode

Dear [Headteacher/SENCO],

Re: (Child’s name and date of birth)

Urgent Request for Mental Health Safety Planning

I am writing to request an urgent meeting and the implementation of a Mental Health Safety Plan for my (son/daughter), due to a noticeable deterioration in their emotional wellbeing linked to school-based stress and anxiety. My child is currently experiencing severe anxiety consistent with School Refusal, and their mental health needs must be approached with care and appropriate support.

My child’s current symptoms and behaviours include:

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

These symptoms show that my child is struggling significantly, and without a coordinated and sensitive response, their mental health may continue to decline. The school is aware of these difficulties, and I appreciate the support that has been offered to date; however, the current level of need now requires a formal and proactive safety plan.

The purpose of a Mental Health Safety Plan is to:

• Identify triggers that worsen anxiety

• Recognise early warning signs of distress

• Agree on safe, supportive strategies for regulation

• Minimise pressure that may worsen symptoms

• Ensure staff know how to respond in a trauma-informed way

• Reduce risk and promote emotional safety

Under the Equality Act 2010, mental health difficulties that have a substantial and long-term impact on daily functioning can be considered a disability. The school therefore has a duty to make reasonable adjustments and to ensure policies do not place my child at a substantial disadvantage.

The SEND Code of Practice (2015) also highlights the need for a supportive, graduated approach for pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. A safety plan is consistent with this guidance.

I am requesting:

• An urgent meeting to discuss a Mental Health Safety Plan

• Identification of safe spaces, trusted adults, and supportive strategies

• Reduced pressure around attendance and transitions

• Agreement that no physical force or coercion will be used

• Clear communication between home and school

• A copy of the written safety plan once completed

My aim is to work collaboratively with the school to ensure that my child feels safe, understood, and supported. A clear safety plan will help protect their wellbeing and prevent further distress.

I would appreciate it if a meeting date could be arranged within the next 10 school days.

Thank you for your time and cooperation.

Yours sincerely,

__________________________________

(Sign and print your name)

Copies sent to:

• School Mental Health Lead

• SENCO

• Local Authority

• GP

• CAMHS

Relevant Legislation & Guidance:

- Equality Act 2010 – Sections 6, 20 & 21

- SEND Code of Practice (2015)

- Children & Families Act 2014 – Sections 19 & 36

- Education Act 1996 – Section 19 (where illness prevents attendance)

Letter 15: DEREGISTRATION

Your Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Postcode

Date: _______________________

Headteacher

School Name

School Address

Postcode

Dear Headteacher,

Re: Deregistration of (Child’s full name and date of birth)

Formal Notification of Deregistration – Education Act 1996, Section 7

I am writing to formally notify you that I am deregistering my (son/daughter), (child’s full name), from the school roll with immediate effect. In accordance with Section 7 of the Education Act 1996, I will now be taking full responsibility for providing suitable education at home.

This decision has not been made lightly. My child has been experiencing significant mental health difficulties, including severe anxiety consistent with School Refusal, and despite efforts to work collaboratively with the school, their emotional wellbeing has continued to decline. As a final course of action, I believe that home education is now the most appropriate and safest option for my child.

Please remove my child’s name from the school roll with immediate effect, as required by law. This letter serves as the formal written notification needed for deregistration.

Kindly confirm in writing:

• That you have removed my child from the school roll

• The date this has taken effect

• Any next steps regarding the return of school equipment (if applicable)

Under the Equality Act 2010, mental health difficulties that have a substantial and long-term impact on daily functioning can be I understand that the school is required to inform the Local Authority of this deregistration, and I am prepared for the Local Authority to make contact regarding elective home education.

Thank you for the support provided to date.

Yours sincerely,

__________________________________

(Sign and print your name)

Copies sent to:

• Local Authority Elective Home Education Team

• SENCO

Key Legislation:

- Education Act 1996 – Section 7 (parental duty to provide suitable education)

- Education (Pupil Registration) Regulations 2006