I’ve seen quite a few references in the last week to people offering webinars and the like on the “advantages and disadvantages” of EOTAS/EOTIS.
EOTAS isn’t a pick n mix selection box. You don’t “choose” to do it – weighing up the pros and cons. It’s what happens when nothing else works – when you have no other choice because continuing on with how things are will mean the systematic traumatisation of your young person.
Every family I work with who has EOTAS is supporting a young person with extremely complex needs that cannot be met in a setting, all of whom also presenting with complex and debilitating mental health needs. Yes – it’s hard – but the alternative is unthinkable.
To frame it this way – as a choice – plays straight into the hands of those who wish to block young people’s access to it. It supports their narrative – that those of us needing EOTAS are just parents who WANT our children not to be in school.
It’s incredibly irresponsible, and only goes to further complicate the situations of those who are desperately trying to prove that this is their young persons only option.
Please, think before you speak.
Lives are quite literally in the balance 
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