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Parent guide

How to request an EHC needs assessment

An Education, Health and Care (EHC) needs assessment is the formal process a local authority uses to decide whether a child or young person may need an EHC plan. A parent can ask the local authority to assess; you do not need the school’s permission to make the request.

When to consider asking

Consider a request where your child’s needs are significant or complex, SEN Support is not enough to meet them, progress or attendance is seriously affected, or several services need to work together. A diagnosis is not a prerequisite. The important issue is the educational impact and the provision needed.

How to make a strong request

1. Write directly to the local authority’s SEND team. Use the phrase “request for an EHC needs assessment” in the subject line.
2. Describe your child’s strengths as well as their needs, and explain how the needs affect access to education, learning, independence, wellbeing and attendance.
3. Summarise the support already in place and why it has not been sufficient. Attach relevant SEN plans, reports, attendance information or professional letters if you have them.
4. Ask for written acknowledgement and keep a copy of your request and attachments.

Key timescales to know

The local authority should decide whether to carry out an EHC needs assessment within six weeks of receiving a request. If it decides to assess and then to issue an EHC plan, the final plan should normally be issued within 20 weeks of the original request. A draft plan should give you at least 15 days to comment and express a preference for a school or college.

If the request is refused

Ask for the reasons in writing and read the appeal information carefully. Parents and young people can challenge a decision not to assess, a decision not to issue a plan, the provision in a plan or the named school. SENDIASS can provide independent local information and support.

Keep it evidence-led, not perfect

It is easy to delay because you are waiting for the “perfect” report. Start with a clear letter and the evidence you already have. You can add further information as the process moves on.

This is general information for families in England and not legal advice.