Our team

Special Educational Needs and Disability Consultancy Service consists of competent, committed and experienced employees.

Annette Benstead

Consultant

Specialist areas

Schools, parent carers, local authorities

Telephone number

01482 572698

I have in excess of 20 years experience in the field of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Initially working for a period of four years with a national charity advising, supporting and representing parents at SEND Tribunals. Following this working in the statutory sector in local government for fourteen years.

I have a Degree (BA Hons) and a Masters Degree in Special Educational Needs which gives me both a deep theoretical understanding of the applicable legislation, such as the Children and Families Act 2014 and SEND Code of Practice 2015, as well as the underpinning philosophies and the experience of applying this as I worked with parents, their children and young people, and fellow professionals.

I was central to the implementation to the Children and Families Act 2014 and SEND Code of Practice 2015 within a local authority. I have a deep and thorough understanding of the processes as they relate to both Statements of Special Educational Needs and Education Health and Care Plans.

I have vast experience (200+) in preparing, responding to and representing at SEND Tribunals. However, the preference is always to negotiate to seek an early resolution of disagreements so that the child or young person gains the support they need.

I have always sought to work in partnership with parent carers, schools and a range of professionals, having built up strong links locally and beyond.

I have been a central figure in SEN coordinators' forums, advising, training and supporting schools with the processes relating to SEND.

I am a widely respected professional and highly knowledgable in all things relating to SEND.

We are pleased to announce that Richard Vickers has joined the team at SEND Consultancy Services as an Associate.

Richard provides an additional source of expertise as he has a wealth of experience in Social Care, Health and SEN. His career was as a social worker and latterly as a manager in Social Care, CAMHS and Paediatric Therapies. Recently Richard has worked as an Independent Supporter advising families about the changes within SEND. He has worked in the statutory, voluntary and private sector and is also a governor in a special school.

Richard is committed to supporting families and in 2007 he received an OBE for his work with children and families. He is a welcome and necessary addition to the Team given the complexity of issues relating to Education, Health and Social Care.