top of page
Search

What is an EHCP? A Parent’s Guide

An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is a legal document for children and young people (up to 25) who need more support than a school’s usual SEN provision. It describes a child’s needs, the additional support required, and the outcomes the plan aims to achieve. Local authorities are required to follow the plan’s provisions. GOV.UK+1


Who should consider requesting an EHCP?


Ask for an EHCP assessment if your child needs more help than the school can provide through its usual SEN support — for example, complex medical needs, significant learning difficulties, or a combination of needs affecting education and wellbeing. Talk to your GP, health visitors, or school SENCO about a referral.


How the process works — step by step


  1. Talk to the school and GP first. Most EHCPs begin with a conversation between parents, school SENCO and health professionals.

  2. Request an assessment. If the school and local authority think extra help is needed, they may begin the formal assessment. The local authority gathers evidence from teachers, therapists, and doctors. GOV.UK

  3. The draft plan. If the assessment supports it, you’ll be given a draft EHCP to comment on. You can request changes.

  4. Final EHCP. After any changes, the final plan is issued and must be followed. The plan will be reviewed at least annually.


What goes into an EHCP?

An EHCP has sections for: needs (education, health, care), outcomes, required provision, names of responsible services, and review dates. It’s designed to be a practical, shared plan used by parents, schools and professionals. GOV.UK


How My Penelope helps with EHCPs


  • Gather dated evidence: use the Daily Activity, Sleep, Mood and Mobility trackers to show how needs affect daily life.

  • Export clinician-ready reports: produce a PDF evidence pack for meetings, showing patterns (e.g., increased meltdowns on poor-sleep nights).

  • Share with professionals: attach notes, photos or brief videos (with consent) to show real-life impact.


Tips for the EHCP meeting

  • Take a printed export from My Penelope showing trends over the last 3 months.

  • Bring copies for the SENCO and any clinicians present.

  • Ask for clear, time-bound outcomes in the plan (e.g., “by Summer term, child will…”) and who is responsible.


Bottom line

EHCPs are a legal route to sustained support. Collecting clear, dated evidence makes the process easier and more convincing — and that’s exactly what My Penelope is designed to help you produce. GOV.UK

Comments

bottom of page