The EHCP Process
1. The EHCP (Education, Health, and Care Plan) process begins with a formal request for an Education, Health, and Care Needs Assessment (EHCNA), which can be made by a parent, young person, or school. This consists of completing paperwork and gathering relevant documentation (medical letters, diagnoses, school APDRs etc) in order to present a sound case for a child's need for a plan. This will be reviewed and discussed in a panel of various professionals.
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2. The Local Authority (LA) has six weeks to decide whether to conduct the assessment. If agreed, the LA has a further 16 weeks to complete the assessment and issue a draft EHCP if the child or young person is deemed eligible. If declined, parents' appeal rights are opened.
3. Once a draft plan is issued, parents/school have 15 days to review and suggest amendments to the draft plan. At this time, formal consultations will be sent to schools to determine whether they can meet the needs of the child. The LA must issue the final EHCP within 20 weeks of the initial request, naming a school in section I of the plan.
Once an EHCP is finalised, annual reviews of the plan will take place in school to monitor the child or young person's progress.
Please note, parents can challenge all decisions throughout the EHCP process, including refusals to assess or issue a plan, through mediation or a SEND Tribunal.
FAQs
1. What is an EHCP?
An Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) is a legal document that outlines a child’s special educational needs and the support they require from education, health, and social care services.
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2. How do I apply for an EHCP?
To apply for an EHCP, you need to request an Education, Health, and Care Needs Assessment (EHCNA) from your Local Authority. This can be done by contacting the SEN (Special Educational Needs) department at your child’s school or directly with the Local Authority.
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3. What happens if my EHCP request is refused?
If your request for an EHCP is refused, you can challenge the decision through mediation or by appealing to a SEND Tribunal. It’s important to review the reasons for the refusal and gather additional evidence if necessary.
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4. How long does it take to get an EHCP?
The entire process from requesting an assessment to receiving a final EHCP typically takes up to 20 weeks. This includes the time for the Local Authority to decide on the assessment and to issue the final plan.
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5. What should be included in an EHCP?
An EHCP should include detailed sections on your child’s needs, the specific outcomes they should achieve, and the support and services required to meet those needs. It should also outline how progress will be monitored.
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6. How often is the EHCP reviewed?
An EHCP must be reviewed at least annually. During the annual review, the plan is assessed to ensure it still meets the child’s needs and any necessary changes are made.
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7. Can I appeal the content of an EHCP?
Yes, you can appeal any part of the EHCP, including the description of needs, the proposed support, or the school placement. Appeals can be made through mediation or a SEND Tribunal if necessary.
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8. How can I choose the right school for my child?
When choosing a school, consider factors such as the school’s experience with your child’s specific needs, its approach to SEND, and whether it can provide the support outlined in the EHCP. It’s helpful to visit schools and discuss your child’s needs with the school’s SENCO or headteacher.