What's involved for Parents
The Tribunals have been established with the objective of providing an independent and expert body to adjudicate in a user-friendly way on certain disputed matters relating to additional support needs.
The aims of the Tribunals are:
- to provide independent and expert decision making, impartially, efficiently and effectively, in accordance with the Act;
- to be user-friendly through informal and flexible proceedings
- be accessible to users
Making a Reference
The Tribunal can consider a reference from a parent of a child with additional support needs. ’Parent’ is defined in section 135 of the Education (Scotland) Act 1980 as “ “parent” includes guardian and any person who is liable to maintain or has the actual custody of a child or young person”
A young person (aged 16 or 17) can make their own reference to the Tribunals. Where the young person lacks capacity, their parent can make the reference on their behalf. The reference must be received by the secretariat no later than 2 months from the date on which the failure first occured.
Those wishing to make a reference should complete the 
reference form which asks all the necessary questions for a valid reference. The reference form can be downloaded or completed online and sent electronically to inquires@asntscotland.gov.uk. The Law requires that this form is signed therefore we will print it and send it back for you to sign and return.
It is very helpful to include as much information as possible with the reference form. Documents such as reports, correspondence with the Education Authority and co-ordinated support plans, will help to indicate if the reference is competent.