Education and EHCP Guidance
Understanding EHCPs
An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is a legal document that describes a child or young person’s educational, health, and social care needs and the support required to meet those needs. EHCPs are designed to ensure children and young people receive the right support to help them achieve positive outcomes.
A child or young person up to the age of 25 who requires support beyond what is normally available through a school, college or early years setting may be eligible if they have significant difficulties with:
- learning,
- communication
- physical or sensory needs
- social
- emotional or mental health needs
An EHCP is issued following a statutory assessment by the local authority and sets out the individual’s needs, the support they require and the outcomes they are working towards.
More information is available here:
Children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)
As a Parent Carer
You have an important role in:
- Contributing to assessments
- Attending meetings
- Reviewing plans
- Sharing your child’s needs and aspirations
- Helping shape support arrangements
Key Stages
The EHCP process usually includes:
- Assessment request
- Assessment and evidence gathering
- Draft plan
- Consultation
- Final plan
- Annual review
Getting Support
If you need help understanding the process, independent advice services, SEND support organisations, and parent carer forums can provide guidance and advocacy.