If your child has complex special educational needs, you may have heard about EHCPs — Education, Health and Care Plans. But what exactly are they, and how do you go about getting one?
As a parent, getting an EHCP can be confusing, especially when you already have so much on your plate caring for a child with additional needs. This definitive guide breaks down the EHCP process into simple steps, so you can get the vital support your child deserves.
What is an EHCP?
An EHCP is a legal document describing a child or young person’s needs and the support they require to meet those needs. It is drawn up by the local authority and lays out provisions for learning, health care, social care, and preparation for adulthood.
Children with an EHCP may need extra help due to:
- Learning difficulties
- Sensory impairments like blindness or deafness
- Autism
- Physical disabilities
- Severe mental health conditions
The plan is tailored to the child’s specific difficulties and aims to give them the assistance needed to thrive and reach their potential. EHCPs can provide extra funding, services, equipment, and tailor-made learning programs.
Should My Child Have an EHCP?
Every child’s needs are unique, but generally, an EHCP is appropriate if:
- Your child has not made expected progress despite intervention and quality teaching.
- Their needs cannot be fully met through SEN support at school.
- They have complex or lifelong conditions requiring specialist support.
- They need provision across education, health, and/or social care.
If you feel your child’s needs warrant an EHCP, the next step is requesting an assessment.
Requesting an EHC Needs Assessment
To begin the process, you need to send a written request to your local authority asking for an EHC needs assessment. Your request should include:
- Your child’s full name, date of birth and address
- Details of their difficulties, needs, and current provision
- Why you feel the current provision is insufficient?
- Any evidence supporting their needs (reports, letters, assessments)
- Your desired outcomes and provisional suggestions
Once the request is received, the local authority must tell you within six weeks if they will proceed with the EHC assessment.
The Assessment Process
If the local authority agrees to assess your child, they have up to 20 weeks to complete the process. It includes:
- Gathering information and advice from you, your child, and those involved in their care, like teachers and health professionals
- Appointing an assessor to coordinate the EHCP process
- Having professionals assess your child’s needs within education, health and care
- Making a decision on whether an EHCP is necessary
- Issuing a draft EHCP to give you a chance to review and request changes
- Issuing the final EHCP
Tips for the Assessment Stage
- Submit any reports, evidence, and information promptly when asked
- Share your insights into your child’s needs from your perspective
- Emphasize if there have been any changes in your child’s condition
- Explain your preferred outcomes and provisional suggestions
- Consider including a letter from your child giving their views
- Have meetings with school staff and other professionals to get input
- Give feedback on the draft EHCP within 15 days
Securing the Right Support
Once the final EHCP is issued naming the provision your child will receive, you’ll want to ensure it is being delivered. Here are some tips:
- Discuss implementation details with your child’s school or setting.
- Request an annual review meeting to check progress and update the plan.
- Monitor that actions are carried out and provision is consistent.
- Alert the local authority if parts of the EHCP are not being implemented.
- Stay in regular contact with those involved in your child’s care.
- Consider mediation if major disputes arise with the local authority.
- Appeal to the SEND Tribunal if you strongly disagree with the plan.
Remember, advocating for your child is a marathon, not a sprint. With an EHCP in place, you’ve got a solid framework. Stay engaged each step of the way to help your child thrive. You’ve got this!
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