What is an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)?

What is an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)?

An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is a legal document in the United Kingdom that outlines the education, health, and social care needs of a child or young person with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The plan details the support required to meet those needs and achieve desired outcomes, ensuring a coordinated approach to a child’s care and education.

Purpose of an EHCP

The primary purpose of an EHCP is to ensure that children and young people who need additional support receive tailored services that cater to their specific circumstances. It provides a comprehensive overview of their needs and the resources available to assist them. This ensures they can make progress in their education, develop independence, and prepare for adulthood. An EHCP replaces the previous Statement of Special Educational Needs and Learning Difficulty Assessments in England.

Eligibility for an EHCP

Children and young people aged 0-25 years who have a significantly greater difficulty in learning than their peers, or have a disability that affects their ability to access the educational facilities, may be eligible for an EHCP. To determine eligibility, a detailed assessment involving the child, parents, teachers, and various professionals is conducted. The assessment considers the child’s educational progress, health requirements, and any additional support needed.

The EHCP Process

The process begins with a formal request for an assessment from the child’s parents, school, or the young person themselves if over the age of 16. Local authorities have a 20-week timeframe to conduct the assessment and decide whether to issue an EHCP. During this period, existing evidence, observations, and reports from education professionals and other specialists, such as healthcare providers, are gathered and reviewed.

If the local authority decides to issue an EHCP, it will draft a plan that includes input from all parties involved. Parents and young people have the opportunity to review the draft and suggest changes. Once agreed upon, the EHCP becomes a legally binding document that must be reviewed annually to ensure it remains applicable to the child’s evolving needs.

Contents of an EHCP

An EHCP consists of several sections, detailing the child's educational, health, and social care needs; the outcomes expected from the support provided; and a list of the provision to be made, including educational placement and additional services. The plan specifies the child's strengths and challenges, providing a roadmap for targeted interventions and monitoring progress.

Benefits of an EHCP

Having an EHCP ensures that children and young people with SEND receive personalized support, promoting equal opportunities in education and life. By involving professionals from multiple sectors, EHCPs facilitate an integrated, holistic approach to a child's development, addressing educational challenges alongside health and social care needs. This coordinated effort helps children reach their full potential and better prepares them for future stages of their lives.