What is EHCP?

An EHCP, or Education, Health and Care Plan, is a legally binding document used in England to outline the special educational, health, and social care support that a child or young person (up to age 25) with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) requires.

🔍 Key Points About EHCPs:

• Purpose: To ensure that children and young people with significant or complex needs receive the tailored support they need to access education and achieve positive outcomes.

• Who it’s for: Children and young people whose needs cannot be met through standard Special Educational Needs (SEN) support offered by schools or colleges.

• What it includes:

  • Section A: The views, interests, and aspirations of the child and their family.

  • Section B: The child’s or young person’s special educational needs.

  • Section C: Health needs related to their SEND.

  • Section D: Social care needs.

  • Section E: Desired outcomes.

  • Section F: The specific educational provision required.

  • Section G-H: Health and social care provision.

  • Section I: The name/type of school or college.

  • Sections J-K: Personal budgets and advice/information gathered during assessment.

• Legal Status: Once finalised, an EHCP is a legal obligation for the Local Authority (LA) and relevant health bodies — they must provide the support detailed in the plan.

• Annual Review: EHCPs must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they still meet the young person's needs.