If your child has a high level of need, they will require a more specialist assessment, known as a statutory assessment, to assess whether they need more specialist provision. This will come through a personalised plan known as an education, health and care plan (EHC).

You and your child will be at the centre of this process. The provision that your child will need to make progress will be set out, monitored and reviewed.

We review the provision and arrangements for children and young people with an EHC plan every year. Your child will be supported to participate in this meeting, and you will be asked what you would like to discuss and also for your views.

Requesting an assessment

The following (with the agreement of the child’s parent or young person) are allowed to ask a local authority to carry out an EHC assessment for a child or young person from 0 to 25 years of age:

• the child’s parent
• a young person between 16 and 25 (including those in youth custody)
• a person acting on behalf of a school or post-16 institution
• any individual with specific concerns, including foster carers, health and social care professionals, early years practitioners, those responsible for a youth in custody, or a family friend

To request an EHC assessment contact EHC@lbbd.gov.uk.

EHC plans and who they are for

An education, health and care (EHC) plan is for children and young people aged up to 25 who need more support than is available through special educational needs support. EHC plans identify educational, health and social needs and set out the additional support to meet those needs.