Tribunal, Dispute Resolution and Complaints Lead (Full Time) in Harrogate

Tribunal, Dispute Resolution and Complaints Lead

We are seeking a Tribunal, Dispute Resolution and Complaints Lead to play a pivotal role within our SEND Assessment Service (0–25), leading on SEND tribunals, complaints, dispute resolution and other associated legal processes. This is an exciting opportunity to influence practice across the local authority and help deliver positive outcomes for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

The role

You will take direct responsibility for the management of SEND cases that are subject to SEND Tribunal appeals, complaints and dispute resolution processes. You will work closely with families, schools, legal representatives, health and social care partners, and senior local authority colleagues to secure effective and lawful outcomes. This will involve supporting locality team managers and caseworkers through robust supervision arrangements and taking lead responsibility to ensure a coordinated response is provided to families and children.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage SEND tribunal appeals, complaints and dispute resolution activity on behalf of the local authority.
• Represent the local authority at SEND Tribunal hearings and other formal proceedings, ensuring compliance with any resulting orders.
• Prepare, coordinate and submit high‑quality evidence and case documentation to support tribunal hearings.
• Provide expert advice and guidance to EHC Casework Managers and Officers on all aspects of SENDIST processes and practice.
• Work proactively with families and partners to resolve disputes at the earliest opportunity and reduce the need for formal appeals.
• Support quality assurance processes and the robustness of SEND decision‑making, including SEN Panels.
• Deliver training and workforce development to schools, colleges, governors and professionals across education, health and social care.
• Monitor complaint and tribunal trends, identify areas for improvement and contribute to strategic SEND developments.
• Develop high‑quality CPD opportunities for the wider service in liaison with the Lead for SEND.
• Ensure accurate records are maintained and appeals activity is fully coordinated across the service.

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of SEND legislation, statutory guidance and current policy developments.
• Knowledge of children's continuing healthcare and NHS policy.
• Significant experience working within a SEND legislative framework.
• Experience managing complex cases involving legal, professional and ethical considerations.
• Experience of managing financial and reputational risk.
• The ability to work effectively with senior leaders, legal representatives and multi‑agency partners.
• Strong negotiation, facilitation and conflict resolution skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex information clearly and confidently.
• The ability to work independently, prioritise effectively and meet demanding statutory timescales.
• A commitment to inclusion, equality and outstanding customer service.

Why Join us?

• Generous Annual Leave: 28 days of holiday (pro‑rata), increasing to 34 days after 5 years’ service – plus public holidays.
• Pension Scheme: Save for your future with our generous Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Fitness Discounts: Discounted gym memberships at various gyms across the county.
• Lifestyle Savings: Enjoy a wide range of discounts at hundreds of popular high‑street and online retailers.
• Additional wellbeing support, employee assistance and development opportunities.

Information & application

Contact Chris Reynolds, Head of SEND and Resources, via email at Chris.Reynolds@northyorks.gov.uk for more information about this role.