# How do I apply for an EHCP? (with a parent views example)

> The 20-week process step by step, how to write your request and parent views, and what to do if the answer is no.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/apply-for-ehcp
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-27

**Short answer:** You can ask your local authority for an EHC needs assessment yourself, in writing. The authority must decide within 6 weeks whether to assess, decide within 16 weeks whether to issue a plan, and finish the process within 20 weeks. Your request and 'parent views' should describe your child's needs with real examples, what's been tried, and what still isn't working.

**Key takeaways**
- **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.[1][2]

## 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.

**Numbers and examples.** "Hides under a table 6 times a month" is stronger evidence than "struggles with change."

**Get free help if....** you're refused, the process is delayed, or you disagree with the plan. IPSEA and your local SENDIASS give free,
  independent advice.

Free printable: [Free printable: one-page pupil profile](https://theautismkit.com/printables/pupil-profile.pdf)

## What can I do this week?

- [ ] Write down 5 specific examples of what's hard
- [ ] Gather school reports and professional letters
- [ ] Send your request in writing and keep a copy

Read first: [What is an EHCP?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/what-is-an-ehcp)

## Common questions

### Do I need the school's permission to apply?

No. Parents can request an EHC needs assessment directly from the local authority.

### What if the council refuses to assess?

You can appeal to the SEND Tribunal. You'll usually need to consider mediation first. Free advice services like IPSEA and your local SENDIASS can help.

### What are parent views?

Your written account of your child: their strengths, needs, what helps, and your hopes. It's part of the evidence the local authority considers.

## Sources

1. IPSEA: Asking for an EHC needs assessment. https://www.ipsea.org.uk/asking-for-an-ehc-needs-assessment
2. IPSEA: What happens in an EHC needs assessment. https://www.ipsea.org.uk/what-happens-in-an-ehc-needs-assessment
3. GOV.UK: SEND code of practice, 0 to 25 years. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/send-code-of-practice-0-to-25

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.