Ages 0–25 · England

SEND support and EHC plans

A child does not need a diagnosis to receive help at school. Start with the teacher or SENCO; an EHC plan is for needs that require more support than ordinary SEN support can provide.

  • SENCO the school's special-needs lead
  • 16 weeks to say whether an EHC plan will be made
  • 20 weeks request to final plan, normally
  • 15 days minimum to comment on a draft plan

What you need to know

  1. Begin with evidence, not a label. Write down what your child finds difficult, what helps and what school has tried. Ask for a meeting with the class teacher and SENCO.
  2. SEN support happens in school. The school should assess needs, plan support, carry it out and review the result with you. Ask for the plan and review date in writing.
  3. You can request an EHC needs assessment. A parent, young person aged 16 to 25, school or professional can ask the local authority when ordinary support may not be enough.
  4. An EHC plan has legal force. It records education, health and care needs and the provision required. You can comment on the draft, request a setting and challenge specified decisions.

How to prepare for a meeting

Keep a one-page timeline

List concerns, referrals, support tried and what changed.

Use concrete examples

Describe what happens during reading, transitions, noise, homework or friendships.

Ask for measurable support

Who will help, how often, for how long and when will it be reviewed?

Find the Local Offer

Every council publishes its SEND services and its independent Information, Advice and Support Service.

Questions parents ask

Does my child need a medical diagnosis first?

No. Support should be based on identified needs. A diagnosis can add useful evidence but should not be a gate to school support.

Can I ask the council directly for an assessment?

Yes. Parents can make the request themselves and include school reports, health assessments and their own account of the child's needs.

What if the council refuses?

The decision letter should explain review, mediation and appeal rights. The local SEND Information, Advice and Support Service can help.

Source: GOV.UK, children with SEND: extra help and EHC plans
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