Form SEND7: Change Your Social Security Appeal Hearing
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Tribunal proceedings rarely run in a perfectly straight line. Circumstances shift, new evidence comes to light, witnesses become unavailable, and dates that once worked for everyone suddenly clash with something important. When that happens, you can ask the tribunal to make changes, but the request has to be made properly and for reasons the tribunal will accept.
This guide walks through the most common types of change request parties make during tribunal proceedings in England and Wales. That includes asking for more time to comply with a direction, moving the final hearing, applying for a witness summons, and amending your grounds of appeal or response.
Each has its own considerations, and getting the approach right can make the difference between a request that succeeds and one that is refused out of hand.
Overview
A request for change is a formal application asking the tribunal to adjust something about how the proceedings are being run. Tribunals have wide case management powers and can alter deadlines, reschedule hearings, issue witness summons, and permit amendments to pleadings, but they exercise those powers carefully.
The overriding objective for most tribunals is to deal with cases fairly and justly, which means balancing the interests of both parties alongside efficient use of tribunal resources. In practice, that means the tribunal will want to see a clear reason for the change, evidence that you have tried to agree it with the other party, and an explanation of why granting it will not unfairly prejudice anyone involved.
Different tribunals have slightly different rules and forms, so always check the specific procedure rules that apply to your tribunal, whether that is the First-tier Tribunal, the Employment Tribunal, or another specialist body. The principles below apply broadly, but the detailed rules you must follow will depend on which tribunal is hearing your case.
Key steps
- Speak to the other party first. Before making any request, contact the other side and ask whether they agree to the change you want. Tribunals strongly prefer applications that are either consented to or accompanied by a clear record of the other party's position. Note down what they say and include that information in your application.
- Put the request in writing to the tribunal. Send your application to the tribunal using the method set out in the relevant procedure rules, usually by email or through the tribunal's online service. Clearly state what you are asking for, why you need it, and whether the other party agrees. Attach any supporting documents that back up your reasons.
- Explain the circumstances in detail. Tribunals rarely grant changes on vague grounds. Set out the factual background, any unexpected events, and why the existing arrangement is no longer workable. If you are asking to move a hearing, suggest alternative dates. If you want a time extension, propose a realistic new deadline you can meet.
- Send the request promptly. Do not sit on a problem hoping it will resolve itself. The longer you wait, the less sympathetic the tribunal tends to be, particularly if your delay affects the other party's ability to prepare. Apply as soon as you know a change is needed, and continue to comply with existing directions unless told otherwise.
- Wait for the tribunal's response and act accordingly. The tribunal will consider your application and issue a decision, sometimes after inviting further comments from the other side. If the request is refused, you must stick to the original directions. If it is granted, follow any new timetable or conditions the tribunal sets out precisely.
Common questions
Q Will the tribunal automatically agree if both parties consent?
Not always. Even when both sides agree, the tribunal still has to be satisfied the change fits with the overriding objective and does not waste resources or push the case off track. Agreed applications are usually easier to get through, particularly for shorter extensions, but the tribunal retains the final say. You should still explain the reasons rather than relying on consent alone.
Q What counts as exceptional circumstances for moving a hearing?
There is no fixed list, but tribunals typically look for something unforeseeable and serious, such as sudden illness supported by medical evidence, bereavement, or a genuine conflict that could not have been avoided. Ordinary work commitments, holidays booked after the hearing was listed, or simply wanting more preparation time rarely meet the threshold. Always provide evidence to support what you say.
Q How soon should I ask for more time to comply with a direction?
As soon as you realise you may struggle to meet the deadline. Waiting until after the date has passed makes things much harder, because you are then asking for relief from a missed deadline rather than a forward-looking extension. Early applications show the tribunal you are engaging responsibly with the process and give everyone time to adjust.
Q Can I apply for a witness summons if the witness simply does not want to attend?
Yes, that is one of the situations a summons is designed for. You will need to show the tribunal that the witness's evidence is genuinely necessary, that you have tried other routes such as obtaining a witness statement, and that the witness has refused or is unlikely to attend voluntarily. Provide their full name, occupation, and address so the summons can be served.
Q What if my reasons for amending the grounds of appeal only emerged recently?
Tribunals are often more receptive to late amendments when they flow from information that has only just become available, for example disclosure from the other side or a new decision. Explain the timeline clearly, show when you became aware of the new point, and apply promptly once you know you need to amend. Delay after discovery tends to weaken the application.
Q Do I have to use a specific form to request a change?
It depends on the tribunal. Some require a formal application notice, while others accept a written request by letter or email as long as it contains the necessary information. Check the procedure rules and any guidance published by the tribunal handling your case. When in doubt, include more detail rather than less and make your request clearly identifiable.
Q What happens if my request is refused?
You must continue to comply with the existing directions and attend the hearing on the original date. In some cases there may be a right to apply for the decision to be reconsidered or, in limited circumstances, to appeal a case management decision. Taking no action after a refusal is risky and can lead to your case being struck out or decided without your evidence.
Sources
This guide is based on primary UK law and official guidance.
- Guidance · HMCTSHM Courts and Tribunals Servicegov.uk
- Guidance · HMCTSTribunal Procedure Rulesgov.uk
- Guidance · HMCTSFirst-tier Tribunal (Special Educational Needs and Disability)gov.uk
Legal disclaimer
This article is for general information only. It is a tool to help you find your way — not legal advice, and not a substitute for speaking to a qualified adviser about your situation.