Getting the Right EHCP: What Every Parent Needs to Know

If you’re navigating the EHCP process, you probably already know how complex and frustrating it can be. The paperwork, the meetings, the waiting, the uncertainty—it can feel like a full-time job just trying to secure the right support for your child.

The truth is, many parents don’t realise how much power they actually have in this process. Schools and local authorities may make it seem like they hold all the cards, but EHCPs are governed by legal rights, deadlines, and clear obligations. If you know how to approach it the right way, you can make the system work for you—rather than feeling stuck in endless delays and vague promises.

Why Do So Many EHCPs Get Rejected or Delayed?

One of the biggest frustrations parents face is the local authority refusing to assess their child or issuing a weak EHCPthat doesn’t include enough support. This usually happens for three key reasons:

✔️ Lack of clear evidence – The application doesn’t include enough detailed reports or examples of need.
✔️ Vague wording in Section F – Instead of clear, enforceable provision, the EHCP might say "support as needed", which is legally weak.
✔️ Missed deadlines and delays – Local authorities often take longer than they should, and parents aren’t always aware that they can challenge missed deadlines.

The good news? All of these issues can be fixed.

Three Things You Can Do Right Now to Strengthen Your EHCP Application

If you're in the process of applying for an EHCP—or if you’re about to—here are three key steps you can take to give your child the best chance of getting the support they need.

1️⃣ Make Sure Your Application is Evidence-Based

When requesting an EHCP, it’s not enough to say that your child is struggling—you need evidence that their needs require additional support beyond what the school can provide.

📌 Include:
✔️ Educational reports (teacher assessments, specialist recommendations)
✔️ Medical or therapy reports (Speech & Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Educational Psychology)
✔️ A clear explanation of how their difficulties impact learning

💡 Tip: Schools don’t always give a full picture of your child’s struggles. Keep your own records, including emails, behaviour logs, and any incidents where they were unable to access learning.

2️⃣ Don’t Accept a Vague EHCP – Section F Must Be Legally Enforceable

Section F of an EHCP outlines the specific support your child will receive—and this is the section that must be legally enforceable. Unfortunately, many EHCPs include weak, non-specific wording, which allows schools to avoid providing proper support.

❌ Bad Example: "Access to support when needed" (too vague—this could mean anything)
✅ Good Example: "Three 30-minute Speech & Language Therapy sessions per week delivered by a qualified therapist."(clear, measurable, and enforceable)

🚨 If Section F is too vague, you can challenge it before the final EHCP is issued.

3️⃣ Know Your Rights and Deadlines – The Local Authority Has Time Limits

Many parents don’t realise that EHCPs have strict legal deadlines that local authorities must follow. If they miss these, you can challenge the delay.

📌 Legal Deadlines for EHCPs:
✔️ 6 weeks – Local authority must decide whether to assess.
✔️ 16 weeks – If assessing, they must issue a draft EHCP.
✔️ 20 weeks – Final EHCP must be issued.

📌 What If They Miss a Deadline?
✔️ Email the local authority reminding them of their legal obligation.
✔️ If they don’t respond, submit a formal complaint.
✔️ If delays continue, escalate to the Local Government Ombudsman.

Want More Practical Help? Get the Step-by-Step EHCP Guide

The EHCP process can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. That’s why I’ve put together a comprehensive, step-by-step guide that covers everything you need to know, including:

✔️ How to apply for an EHCP (with a template letter)
✔️ What to do if the local authority refuses
✔️ How to get independent assessments to strengthen your case
✔️ A breakdown of Section F and how to make it legally enforceable
✔️ Appeal deadlines and step-by-step tribunal guidance
✔️ Personal budgets, transport rights, and school placements explained

📌 The guide also includes template letters for EHCP requests, appeals, and complaints—so you can take action immediately.

💡 If you’re ready to feel more confident and in control of the EHCP process, grab your copy today. It’s everything I wish I had known when first navigating the system.

👉 [Download the EHCP Guide Now]

Final Thoughts

Getting the right EHCP for your child isn’t about luck—it’s about knowing the system, understanding your rights, and making sure your child’s needs are properly documented. The more informed you are, the stronger your case will be.