Harper Macleod Supports New Advocacy For Education Service

Leading commercial law firm Harper Macleod LLP is providing pro bono support for a new Advocacy for Education Service being launched in Scotland by the National Autistic Society (NAS).

The NAS Advocacy for Education Service offers a free telephone based service which is delivered by trained volunteers providing quality advice and advocacy on additional educational needs provision and entitlement. The service will be delivered across Scotland from early 2006 in order to assist parents with the new system of Additional Support Needs Tribunals introduced by the Scottish Executive as part of the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Act 2004.   

Families are helped to represent themselves at Tribunal, receiving advice and support in preparing their case against their local authority. However, there can be situations where families are unable to represent themselves and in these cases, lawyers at Harper Macleod will work closely with parents and NAS volunteers, preparing appeals to the Additional Support Needs Tribunal and representing parents at Tribunal hearings.

Stephanie Carr, Partner at Harper Macleod, said:

  "The Act is introducing new procedures and a new Additional Support Needs Tribunal system covering potentially complex legal issues which we are happy to advise and provide representation on.  As a firm with a wealth of experience in litigation, we are keenly aware that the parents who contact the NAS will often lack the resources to fund the appropriate advocacy expertise in preparing and conducting cases. Self-representation is a task that could prove daunting for many without assistance in understanding legal principles and procedures."

"We expect the work to be both challenging and rewarding and we will be working hard to ensure that the rights of children and young persons with autism are protected and advanced.  The NAS provides a lifeline of support for families affected by autism and we are delighted to be in a position to offer advocacy services on a pro bono basis."

 Harper Macleod is the latest legal firm to form an alliance with the NAS.  Clifford Chance and Addleshaw Goddard provide free legal representation to parents attending Tribunal in England and Wales.

Petula Storey, Head of Advice and Advocacy at the NAS, the UKs leading charity for people with autism, said:

 "Accessing the appropriate educational provision for a child with autism can be a complex and difficult process. NAS research demonstrates that parents of children with autism in Scotland have concerns about the current system and that many are unaware of the changes that the new legislation will bring. The Advocacy for Education Service will offer the information, support and advice these parents need. We are delighted to be working in partnership with a firm of the reputation of Harper Macleod and would particularly welcome enquiries from individuals interested in training as a volunteer for the service."