Published by Reconnect Learning
If your child is struggling to access education despite receiving support, you may be considering an Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment. For many families, this can feel like a daunting process, particularly if it is their first experience of the SEND system.
Understanding how the process works and preparing the right information can help ensure your child's needs are fully understood and considered.
What Is an EHCP Needs Assessment?
An Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment is a formal process used to determine whether a child or young person requires an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
The assessment gathers information from parents, education professionals, health services and other specialists to build a clear picture of the child's needs and the support required.
Who Can Request an Assessment?
An EHCP Needs Assessment can be requested by:
- Parents or carers
- A young person aged 16 or over
- A school or educational setting
- Other professionals working with the child
The request is submitted to the Local Authority, which will decide whether an assessment should take place.
When Should an Assessment Be Considered?
An assessment may be appropriate when a child continues to experience significant difficulties despite receiving SEND support.
This may include:
- Persistent difficulties accessing learning
- Complex SEND needs
- Significant communication difficulties
- Autism or ADHD requiring extensive support
- SEMH needs
- Attendance difficulties linked to SEND
- EBSNA
- Medical needs affecting education
What Evidence Is Helpful?
Evidence helps the Local Authority understand the nature and impact of a child's needs.
Useful evidence may include:
- School reports
- Progress data
- Attendance records
- Professional assessments
- Medical reports
- Educational Psychology reports
- Speech and Language reports
- Occupational Therapy reports
- Parent observations
- The child's views
The Importance of Parent Views
Parents play a vital role in the assessment process.
You know your child better than anyone else and can provide valuable information about their strengths, challenges and daily experiences.
When preparing your contribution, consider:
- What your child enjoys and does well
- Areas where they struggle
- How difficulties affect daily life
- Support that has been successful
- Your hopes for the future
What Happens During the Assessment?
The Local Authority will gather information from relevant professionals and review the evidence provided.
This process helps determine:
- The child's needs
- The support required
- Whether an EHCP is necessary
- Appropriate outcomes and provision
What Happens Next?
Following the assessment, the Local Authority will decide whether to issue an EHCP.
If an EHCP is issued, it should clearly describe:
- The child's needs
- Required support
- Expected outcomes
- Educational provision
- Placement details where appropriate
If an EHCP Is Not Issued
In some cases, the Local Authority may decide not to issue an EHCP.
Parents have rights to seek further information, challenge decisions and explore available support pathways if they disagree with the outcome.
Supporting Your Child Through the Process
The assessment process can take time and may feel stressful for families.
During this period it is important to:
- Keep records and copies of documents
- Maintain communication with professionals
- Focus on your child's wellbeing
- Celebrate progress and strengths
- Seek advice when needed
How Reconnect Learning Can Help
Reconnect Learning supports children and young people with SEND, EHCPs, EBSNA and barriers to education.
Our support includes:
- SEND Support
- EHCP Support
- Alternative Provision
- Home Tuition
- Online Learning
- EBSNA Support
- Attendance Support
- Mentoring
- Reintegration Programmes
- Functional Skills and GCSE Support
Every Child Deserves the Right Support
An EHCP Needs Assessment can be an important step towards securing the support a child requires to thrive in education.
Understanding the process and preparing effectively can help families feel more confident and ensure that children's needs remain at the centre of decision-making.
Need Advice?
If you would like to discuss SEND support, EHCPs or educational pathways for your child, Reconnect Learning would be happy to help.
Call: 01708 918728
Email: info@reconnectlearning.co.uk
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