Navigating the Process: Applying for an Education, Health and Care Plan
Support and Guidance for Parents and Carers
When your child has special educational needs or disabilities (SEND), securing the right support can feel overwhelming. One of the most significant forms of help available in England is an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). But how do you apply for one — and what does the process involve?
This guide walks you through each step of applying for an EHCP, helping you feel informed, empowered, and ready to advocate for your child.
What Is an EHCP?
An Education, Health and Care Plan is a legal document for children and young people aged 0 to 25 who need more support than is available through standard SEN support in school or college.
An EHCP:
Identifies a child’s special educational needs
Outlines the educational, health, and social care provision they require
Sets goals and long-term outcomes
Is reviewed annually and stays with the young person through education and training
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for an EHCP
1. Recognise the Need
Before applying, consider whether your child:
Is struggling to make expected progress, even with SEN support
Has complex or multiple needs that require coordinated input from education, health, and/or social care
Needs more help than the school can reasonably provide from its existing resources
Talk with your child’s school SENCO about what’s already in place, and whether they agree an EHCP may be necessary.
2. Make the Request
You can request an EHC needs assessment yourself, or the request can come from:
Your child’s school or nursery
A health professional
A social worker
Your child (if they’re over 16)
To apply, write to your local authority’s SEND department. Be sure to include:
Your child’s name, date of birth, and school
A description of their difficulties and how they affect learning
Details of any support already in place
Any relevant diagnoses, reports, or professional input
A written request triggers a legal timeline for the local authority to follow.
3. The Six-Week Decision Window
Once your request is received, the local authority has six weeks to decide whether to carry out a full needs assessment.
They will gather evidence from:
You, as the parent or carer
Your child (if appropriate)
The school or early years setting
Medical professionals (e.g. GPs, paediatricians)
Educational psychologists or therapists
Outcome 1: They agree to assess — the full assessment process begins
Outcome 2: They refuse to assess — you have the right to appeal
4. The Assessment Process (Weeks 6–16)
If the local authority agrees to assess, further detailed input will be requested, including:
Educational psychology reports
Speech and language therapy assessments
Occupational therapy or medical advice (if relevant)
Social care input
You may also be asked to contribute your views and aspirations for your child, which will be included in the plan.
5. Decision on Issuing an EHCP (By Week 16)
The local authority then decides whether to issue an EHCP based on the evidence gathered. If they say no, they must explain why — and you can appeal.
If they say yes, they’ll issue a draft EHCP.
6. Reviewing the Draft Plan
You will receive a draft EHCP to read and comment on. At this stage, you can:
Suggest changes to the wording
Ask for specific support or outcomes to be added or clarified
Express a preference for a school or setting
You have 15 days to respond. The local authority must consider your views before finalising the plan.
7. Issuing the Final EHCP
The final EHCP must be issued within 20 weeks of the initial request. It becomes a legal document — the local authority is now responsible for ensuring the support detailed in the plan is provided.
Tips for a Smooth Application
Keep records: Save copies of letters, reports, and emails. A clear paper trail helps.
Gather evidence: The stronger your supporting documents, the better.
Stay involved: Your insight as a parent is vital. Make sure your voice is heard.
Ask questions: Don’t be afraid to request clarification or support during the process.
Seek advice: Charities like IPSEA, Contact, and SENDIASS offer excellent guidance.
What If You Disagree with the Decision?
You have the right to appeal:
If the local authority refuses to assess
If they refuse to issue an EHCP
If you disagree with the contents of the EHCP (e.g. placement, support)
Mediation is offered before a tribunal, but it’s not mandatory. Many families successfully challenge decisions through the SEND Tribunal process.
Final Thoughts
Applying for an EHCP can feel daunting, but you’re not alone — and the system exists to support children whose needs go beyond what schools can typically provide.
With persistence, good evidence, and the right advice, many families find that securing an EHCP helps their child flourish both academically and emotionally.
Helpful Resources
SENDIASS (Special Educational Needs and Disability Information, Advice and Support Service)
GOV.UK: EHCP Guidance