What is ehcp

Last updated: April 1, 2026

Quick Answer: EHCP stands for Education, Health and Care Plan, a UK legal document that identifies the additional support needs of young people with special educational requirements and outlines the provision to meet those needs.

Key Facts

EHCP is a UK education system document for children and young people aged 0-25 with special needs
It replaced the previous Statement of Special Educational Needs in 2014
The plan outlines the child's needs, desired outcomes, and support provisions from education, health, and social care
Parents and professionals work together to create and regularly review EHCPs
Local authorities are responsible for assessing, planning, and funding the support outlined in EHCPs

What is an EHCP?

An EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) is a legal document used in the United Kingdom to identify and support young people with complex special educational needs. It was introduced in 2014 as part of the Children and Families Act 2014, replacing the earlier Statement of Special Educational Needs. The EHCP is designed for children and young people from birth to age 25 who require substantial additional support across education, health, and social care.

Purpose and Components

The EHCP serves multiple purposes: it identifies the child's needs and aspirations, specifies learning outcomes and goals, and details the support and resources required to achieve those goals. The document typically includes sections on special educational provision, health needs and provisions, and social care support. It also outlines the child's strengths, interests, and personal outcomes they wish to achieve.

The EHCP Process

The journey toward obtaining an EHCP typically begins with a request from parents, schools, or other professionals to the local authority for a needs assessment. Following the assessment, if the child is determined to require an EHCP, professionals work with parents and the young person to develop the plan collaboratively. The EHCP must be reviewed annually, and parents have rights to appeal decisions they disagree with.

Support and Provision

EHCPs guarantee funding for educational support, and may include specialist school placement, one-to-one assistance, therapy services (speech, occupational, physiotherapy), and coordinated health and social care provision. The plan ensures that young people with complex needs receive the specialized support necessary to access education and prepare for adulthood, including transition planning for post-16 education or employment.

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