How apply for an EHCP: A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents and Carers

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‍Overview

An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is designed to support children and young people (up to age 25) who need more help than a school can usually provide through standard SEN support.

If your child is autistic or has a learning disability and is struggling in school, an EHCP can help ensure they get the right support. The process can feel overwhelming, but understanding the steps can make it much more manageable.

Parents and carers can apply to the local authority for an EHCP needs assessment. A young person can also request an assessment themselves if they’re aged 16 to 25.

Step 1: Identify Your Child’s Needs

Before applying, gather information about your child’s difficulties.

This might include:

Challenges with communication or social interaction
Sensory sensitivities
Learning delays or difficulties
Emotional or behavioural needs

Speak to:

Teachers or the SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator)
Health professionals (e.g. GP, paediatrician, speech therapist)

Step 2: Request an EHC Needs Assessment

You can apply directly to your local authority and don’t need to wait for the school. Write a simple letter or email requesting an EHC needs assessment.

Include:

Your child’s name and date of birth
Their school or setting
Why you believe they need extra support

Remember to be clear and honest about your child’s needs and how they affect daily life and learning.

Step 3: Assessment Process

The local authority has 6 weeks to decide whether to carry out an assessment.

If agreed, they will gather information from:

You (as parents/carers)
The school
Educational psychologists
Health and social care professionals

They will use this to help build a full picture of your child’s needs.

Step 4: Decision on EHCP

After the assessment, the local authority decides whether to issue an EHCP. They may agree to issue a plan or may decide that SEN support is enough. If refused, you have the right to appeal.

Step 5: Draft EHCP

If approved, you’ll receive a draft plan.

This includes:

Your child’s needs
The support they will receive
The school placement

This step is your chance to review and request changes so don’t be afraid to speak up as your input matters!

Step 6: Final EHCP

The final EHCP should be issued within no more than 20 weeks of your original request and once in place the school must follow the plan and support becomes legally binding.

Reassurance for Parents

You are allowed to ask questions and challenge decisions
You don’t have to go through the process alone
Many parents feel unsure at first but that is completely normal
Throughout the whole process remember that you know your child best, and your child’s and your voice is important.

Need more help? Contact the us at Referrals@halowproject.org.uk

References

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