Understanding the process
We explain each stage, the deadlines the local authority must meet, and what to expect next.
EHCP support
Understanding your child's EHCP, without the jargon.
An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is a legal document that outlines the support a child or young person needs to learn and thrive. It can cover everything from classroom adjustments to specialist therapies — but getting one in place, and getting it right, isn't always straightforward.
The journey
The EHCP process, step by step
- 01
Reaching out
You raise a concern with school, your GP or us. We help you put it in writing.
- 02
Requesting an assessment
A request goes to the local authority. They have 6 weeks to decide whether to assess.
- 03
The assessment
Education, health and care professionals gather evidence about your child's needs.
- 04
Draft plan
You receive a draft EHCP and have 15 days to comment and name a school.
- 05
Final plan
The final plan is issued — legally binding, with the support it names enforceable.
- 06
Review & appeal
Plans are reviewed yearly. If you disagree with a decision, you can challenge it.
How We Help
Practical support at every stage
Completing applications
We sit with you to write the request and gather the evidence that makes it strong.
Preparing for assessments
We help you describe your child's needs clearly, and can attend meetings alongside you.
Challenging decisions
If a request is refused or the plan is inadequate, we explain your appeal rights and next steps.
Common Challenges We Address
Problems we see every week
Delays
Statutory timescales quietly missed, with no explanation to the family.
Rejections
Assessment requests refused on the grounds that a child is 'coping'.
Misdiagnosis
Behaviour read as disruption rather than unmet need — often along racial lines.
Communication barriers
Meetings and paperwork with no interpreter and no plain-language version.
Need help with an EHCP?
Book a support session and we will look at where your child's case is right now.