Knowledge that makes the system easier to understand

Scotland’s ASN system is shaped by a complex mix of legislation, statutory guidance, national policy and local authority procedures. For parents and carers, understanding what applies, how these different frameworks fit together and what they actually mean for their child can be difficult.

CounterNarrative ASN aims to make this information more accessible. Through a range of free resources and more detailed paid guides, we break down complex legislation and policy into clear, practical information that parents and carers can understand and use.

Importantly, we explain the differences between law, statutory guidance, national policy and local practice. These terms are often used interchangeably, but they do not carry the same weight or create the same responsibilities.

Our resources cover areas such as additional support for learning, children’s rights, inclusion and the presumption of mainstreaming, reasonable adjustments, support planning and the responsibilities of schools and local authorities.

Rather than simply telling you what a policy says, we aim to help you understand where it comes from, what it means, how it connects with other frameworks and why it matters for your child.

Better knowledge of the system creates a stronger foundation for everything that comes next.