Special Education Path
Scotland · Disagreements

Mediation for additional support disagreements in Scotland

Mediation is a voluntary and confidential way for families and education authorities to try to resolve additional-support disagreements with an independent mediator.

Last reviewed: 29 September 2026 · Jurisdiction: Scotland
Written & maintained bySpecial Education Path Editorial Team
Source standardOfficial and statutory sources
Information, not legal advice.

Scotland uses the Additional Support for Learning framework. A Co-ordinated Support Plan (CSP) is not the Scottish equivalent of an EHCP for every learner; it has specific statutory criteria.

When mediation may help

It can help clarify misunderstandings, narrow issues and agree practical next steps without preventing you from checking other rights.

Not every dispute uses mediation

Different formal routes cover different issues. Tribunal, dispute resolution, appeal committee or complaints procedures may apply depending on the decision.

Prepare for mediation

Write down the specific outcome you want, the evidence supporting it and the points where agreement already exists.

Official and authoritative sources

Scottish Government — Supporting Children’s Learning Code of Practice (2026)

Scottish Government — resolving disagreements

Back to Scotland guides

Check the Scotland glossary

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