How Do I Get an EHCP? A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents

Many parents know their child is struggling at school but don't know where to start.

Perhaps your child has autism, ADHD, dyslexia, anxiety or another additional need, and despite the support already in place, they're still finding school difficult. You may have heard about Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), but the process can feel confusing and overwhelming.

The good news is that you don't need to navigate it alone.

This guide explains how to apply for an EHCP, what happens at each stage of the process, and what to do if things don't go to plan.

What is an EHCP?

An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is a legal document that describes a child or young person's special educational needs, the provision required to meet those needs and the educational placement they will attend.

Unlike SEN Support, an EHCP is legally enforceable. This means the Local Authority has a duty to secure the educational provision specified within the plan.

An EHCP can remain in place until a young person reaches the age of 25, provided they continue to require the support it provides.

Does my child qualify for an EHCP?

This is one of the most common questions parents ask.

There isn't a checklist of diagnoses that automatically qualify a child for an EHCP.

Instead, the Local Authority must consider whether:

• your child may have special educational needs; and

• it may be necessary for special educational provision to be made through an EHCP.

Importantly, your child does not need a diagnosis to request an EHC Needs Assessment.

The focus is on the child's educational needs, not the label attached to them.

Who can request an EHC Needs Assessment?

Many parents are surprised to learn they don't need to wait for the school.

An assessment can be requested by:

• A parent.

• A young person over the age of 16.

• A school or college.

• Another person acting on behalf of the child with the family's agreement.

If you're concerned that your child's needs are not being met, you can apply directly to your Local Authority.

What evidence should I include?

The stronger your evidence, the easier it is for the Local Authority to understand your child's needs.

Useful evidence may include:

• School reports.

• SEN Support plans.

• Attendance records.

• Behaviour records.

• Educational Psychology reports.

• Speech and Language Therapy reports.

• Occupational Therapy reports.

• Medical reports.

• Parent information explaining the impact on daily life.

Remember, evidence isn't just about diagnosis. It should explain how your child's needs affect their ability to access education.

What happens after I apply?

Once your request has been received, the Local Authority has six weeks to decide whether it will carry out an EHC Needs Assessment.

During this time they will consider the evidence provided and decide whether the legal threshold has been met.

If they agree to assess, they will gather advice from professionals involved with your child.

This commonly includes:

• Educational Psychology.

• School advice.

• Health professionals.

• Social Care (where appropriate).

• Parents.

Following the assessment, the Local Authority must decide whether to issue an EHCP.

If they do, you'll receive a Draft EHCP before the Final EHCP is issued.

How long does the process take?

In most cases, the statutory process should be completed within 20 weeks.

A typical timeline looks like this:

• Week 0: Request submitted.

• Week 6: Decision whether to assess.

• Weeks 6–16: Professional advice gathered.

• Around Week 16: Draft EHCP issued (if appropriate).

• By Week 20: Final EHCP issued.

Delays can occur, but the Local Authority is expected to comply with statutory timescales unless limited exceptions apply.

What if the Local Authority refuses to assess?

Receiving a refusal can be incredibly disappointing.

However, it doesn't necessarily mean the decision is correct.

Parents have the right to challenge a refusal, and many refusals are successfully overturned following mediation or an appeal to the SEND Tribunal.

If you've received a refusal, don't assume that's the end of the process.

(You may also find my guide "My Child Has Been Refused an EHCP Assessment – What Can I Do Next?" helpful.)

Common mistakes parents make

Over the years I've seen the same mistakes repeated.

These include:

• Waiting for the school to apply when they could apply themselves.

• Assuming a diagnosis is essential.

• Submitting very little supporting evidence.

• Focusing only on academic attainment.

• Accepting a refusal without considering an appeal.

• Not seeking advice until much later in the process.

Avoiding these mistakes can make the process much smoother.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my child need a diagnosis?

No.

A diagnosis can be helpful but isn't required. The Local Authority must consider your child's educational needs rather than simply whether they have a particular diagnosis.

Can I apply without the school's agreement?

Yes.

Parents can request an EHC Needs Assessment themselves.

Can a school refuse to support my application?

A school can express its views, but it cannot prevent a parent from requesting an assessment.

What if my child is doing well academically?

Academic progress doesn't automatically mean an EHCP isn't required.

Some children achieve good results despite significant unmet needs because of parental support, high levels of anxiety or unsustainable effort.

What happens after I receive a Draft EHCP?

You'll have the opportunity to review the Draft EHCP, request amendments and express a preference for the school your child should attend before the Final EHCP is issued.

(You may also find my guide "My Child Has Just Received a Draft EHCP – What Should I Do Next?" helpful.)

Final Thoughts

Applying for an EHCP can feel daunting, particularly if it's your first experience of the SEND system.

Understanding the process, gathering the right evidence and knowing your rights can make a significant difference.

Remember, an EHCP isn't about securing a diagnosis or a particular label. It's about ensuring your child receives the educational support they need to access learning and achieve positive outcomes.

Need Help Applying for an EHCP?

Every child is different, and every application should reflect their individual needs.

If you're considering applying for an EHCP but aren't sure where to start, or you'd like an independent review of your child's circumstances before submitting your application, I can help.

My EHCP Application Support service includes reviewing the available evidence, identifying any gaps and advising on the strongest approach before you submit your request.

Find out more about my EHCP Application Support or get in touch to discuss your child's situation.