Navigating the Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) process can feel overwhelming. Our specialist SEND Consultant Hannah Henderson offers expert guidance — from initial advice through to document review, advocacy, and direct correspondence with local authorities.
An EHC plan is a legal document that sets out the needs of a child or young person, the support that they require and the outcomes they wish to achieve. Once established, the local authority must provide the specified support.
The local authority conducts an Education Health Care needs assessment to determine whether an EHCP is necessary, though statutory timeframes aren't always met in practice.
Not every child with a diagnosed condition like autism or ADHD automatically requires an EHCP. The legal test under section 36(8) of the Children and Families Act 2014 requires:
If your child struggles academically or requires substantial school support, an EHC needs assessment application may be appropriate. Schools or parents can request assessments; local authorities decide whether to proceed and must explain any refusal.
From first concerns through to final plan — and beyond.
Hannah reviews your concerns, your child's current provision, and whether an EHCP application is likely to be appropriate. She can also guide or complete the application process on your behalf.
After assessment, the authority decides whether evidence supports an EHCP — demonstrating that needs exceed the resources ordinarily available in mainstream school. Hannah can discuss the decision with you and advise on your appeal rights if you disagree with the outcome.
Draft plans need to be reviewed carefully for appropriate language and robustness. You may also request a specific school placement at this stage. Hannah provides thorough document review and amendment suggestions to strengthen your child's plan.
Authorities need not accept all requested changes or approve school preferences. Hannah advises on your rights and can handle correspondence with the local authority directly on your behalf.
Families with existing EHCPs may need ongoing support with local authority liaison — particularly following annual reviews or when relocating to a new area. Hannah offers expert guidance or can correspond with the local authority directly on your behalf, taking that weight off your shoulders.