Do we need an EHCP?
1. What you might notice
Your child’s needs may not be sufficiently understood or support may remain inadequate despite efforts to help. An EHC needs assessment considers whether an EHCP is necessary; requesting one does not guarantee a plan.
2. What to ask
- What needs and support have already been identified?
- What is working, what remains difficult and what further assessment may help?
3. What to record — and why
Needs and practical impact: Explains the educational difficulties to be assessed.
Support tried and results: Shows what is available now and why more may be needed.
Relevant reports and your child’s views: Gives the council evidence from different sources.
Request date and council replies: Helps track decisions and any appeal rights.
4. An example
Fictional example, not an account of North Cestrian or a particular child.
Despite [support], my child continues to have difficulty with [specific issue]. I would like the council to consider an EHC needs assessment.
5. Your next step
Parents can ask the council directly; school agreement is not a prerequisite. Check advice and appeal routes if a request is refused.
Assessment and plan are different stages
The council first decides whether to assess, then whether to issue a plan. The legal test includes whether the child has or may have SEN and whether provision through an EHCP may be necessary. The usual overall limit for a final plan is 20 weeks from the assessment request, with statutory exceptions. Check the decision letter and current guidance; a complaint does not pause appeal deadlines.
Copy a preparation template
Complete your own copy outside this website. Use only the headings that help; the explanation above shows why each matters.
Do we need an EHCP? — PRIVATE PREPARATION NOTE Needs and practical impact: [Your note] Support tried and results: [Your note] Relevant reports and your child’s views: [Your note] Request date and council replies: [Your note] Main question or action requested: [Your note] Agreed follow-up: [Your note]
Check the guidance
GOV.UK: EHC assessments and plans
Children and Families Act: assessment requests
Guidance checked 14 October 2026. Check current rules before formal action.