IDR is different from mediation because:
- IDR can be used at any time. Mediation is only available when decisions are made by us which parent/carers and young people can appeal to the tribunal about or when an EHC Plan is made, amended or replaced.
- the use of the IDR is voluntary for both parties. Parent/carers or young people who wish to make a Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) appeal to the First-tier Tribunal must, in most circumstances, have contacted an independent mediator first before the tribunal can proceed.