Who is RIASS?

Who We Are

Redbridge Information, Advice and Support Service (RIASS) is a free, confidential and impartial service for children and young people aged 0-25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), and for their parents and carers living in Redbridge.

We understand that navigating education, health and social care services can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you have questions about SEN Support, Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), school issues, exclusions, transition to adulthood, or accessing the right support, we are here to help.

Our role is to ensure that children, young people and families have access to clear information and impartial advice so that they can make informed decisions and feel confident about the choices available to them.

What We Believe

At RIASS, we believe that every child and young person deserves the opportunity to achieve their full potential. We are committed to ensuring that families understand their rights, have their voices heard, and can actively participate in decisions that affect their lives. We work alongside families, not on their behalf  or on behalf of any organisation or service. Our advice is impartial, evidence-based and focused on helping you understand your options.

How We Can Help

We provide information, advice and support on:

• Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
• SEN Support in schools and educational settings
• Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs)
• EHC needs assessments and annual reviews
• School attendance, exclusions and reintegration
• Disagreement resolution, mediation and appeals
• Health and social care support relating to SEND
• Transitions between education settings and preparing for adulthood
• The Redbridge Local Offer and other local services
• Signposting to specialist support organisations

WE deliver this to you by:

• Drop in surgeries
• Telephone advice
• Email support
• One-to-one appointments
• Support preparing for meetings
• Guidance before meetings with schools or the Local Authority
• Information resources, workshops and events

We listen carefully to your concerns, help you understand your rights and available options, and support you to make informed decisions that are right for your family.

Impartial, Confidential and Free

As an Information, Advice and Support Service, RIASS is part of a national network of services established to support children and young people with SEND and their families. Our service is:

• Impartial – we provide impartial information and advice.
• Confidential – we will not share information without your consent unless there is a safeguarding concern.
• Free – there is no charge for accessing our service.

Working Together for Better Outcomes

Our aim is simple: to empower children, young people and families with the knowledge, confidence and information they need to participate fully in decisions and achieve the best possible outcomes.

Whatever stage of your SEND journey you are at, RIASS is here to help.