- Parents can apply directly, in writing, to the local authority.
- 6 weeks to decide whether to assess; 20 weeks for the whole process.
- Parent views should use real, specific examples.
- If refused, you can appeal, and free advice is available.
What is the timeline?
| By the end of | What must happen |
|---|---|
| Week 6 | The local authority decides whether to carry out an assessment |
| Week 16 | It decides whether to issue an EHC plan (and sends a draft if so) |
| Week 20 | The final EHC plan is issued |
The clock starts when the local authority receives the request.12
How do I write the request?
Keep it short and clear:1
- Your child's name, date of birth and school
- That you're requesting an EHC needs assessment
- Why you believe your child has or may have special educational needs and may need provision through an EHC plan
- The evidence you're attaching
What should parent views include? (example)
About Sam: Sam is 7. He loves trains, knows every station on his line and makes everyone laugh.
What's hard: Sam can't cope with changes to routine. When the timetable changes without warning, he hides under a table and can't return to class for an hour. This happened 6 times last month.
What helps: a visual timetable, warnings before changes, and a quiet space. At home, a now-and-next board has cut morning stress.
What we hope for: that Sam feels safe at school, can communicate when he's overwhelmed, and makes progress with reading.
Free printable: one-page pupil profilePDF · 1 page · strengths, needs and what helps, in the pupil's words
Download Free printable: one-page pupil profileWhat can I do this week?
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Read first: What is an EHCP?
