Understanding Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPs)
EHCP Definition and Purpose in 2026
An Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is a legal document for children and young people with special educational needs (SEN) and disabilities in England. It explains their needs and sets out what extra help and support they need to learn, grow, and feel well. In 2026, EHCPs focus on both education and health, including emotional and social needs, so children can reach their full potential.
Key Differences From Previous SEN Statements
Before EHCPs, there were SEN Statements. EHCPs include more areas, like health and care, not just education. They last until age 25 if needed, while statements ended at 16. EHCPs involve families and many professionals working together.
The Wellness Angle: Why EHCPs Matter for Holistic Wellbeing
EHCPs are not just about learning at school. They look at the whole person—body, mind, and emotions. This helps children feel happy, safe, and capable, which is the heart of wellness.
Who Needs an EHCP? Identifying Eligibility and Benefits
Age Groups and Conditions Covered
EHCPs are for children and young people aged 0-25 with special educational needs that need more help than schools can usually give. This covers physical disabilities, learning difficulties, autism, mental health challenges, and more.
Signs Your Child Might Benefit From an EHCP
- Struggles with reading, writing, or maths compared to other kids
- Finds it hard to make friends or join in school activities
- Needs lots of support to stay calm or focus
- Has health or therapy needs that affect learning
- Often feels stressed, anxious, or upset about school
The Link Between SEN, Mental Health, and Overall Wellness
Children with SEN often face mental health challenges—like anxiety or low confidence. Supporting overall wellness through an EHCP can help them feel better and do better at school and at home.
The EHCP Process Explained: Step-by-Step Guidance
1. Initiating the EHCP Request (2026 Procedures)
Anyone can ask for an EHCP: parents, teachers, doctors, or the young person themselves. Send a written request to your local council’s SEN team. Include information about the child’s needs and why extra support is needed.
2. What Happens During a Needs Assessment?
The council checks if an EHCP is needed. They gather information from:
- School or nursery
- Doctors and therapists
- Parents and the child
- Other professionals
They look at learning, health, and social care needs.
3. Collecting Evidence: Reports, Wellness Insights, and Parental Contributions
- Gather school reports and test results
- Collect medical or therapy notes
- Write a statement about your child’s daily life and challenges
- Share how your child’s needs affect their wellbeing
4. Navigating Multidisciplinary Involvement: Health and Therapy Practitioners
- Meetings may include doctors, therapists, teachers, and social workers
- Each expert shares their view on what your child needs for learning and wellness
- You can suggest people you want involved
Breaking Down an EHCP: Section-by-Section Guide
What’s Included: The 12 Sections Demystified
- Personal details
- Needs summary
- Outcomes wanted
- Special education help
- Health support
- Social care support
- Short-term goals
- Long-term goals
- Placement (school/college)
- Personal budget details
- Review plan
- Signatures and final comments
Integrating Wellness Goals Into Your EHCP
- Include goals for being healthy, happy, and confident
- Add activities that support emotional and mental wellbeing (like counseling, therapy, or clubs)
- Make sure health, education, and care needs are all covered
Addressing Social, Emotional, and Mental Health Needs
EHCPs can include therapy, social skills groups, or extra time with a trusted adult. Ask for support with stress, anxiety, or making friends if needed. This improves overall wellness and learning.
Practical Tips: How to Advocate for Your Child’s Whole-Person Wellness
Communicating With Schools and Practitioners
- Keep clear, friendly records of all meetings
- Explain your child’s needs in simple terms
- Ask questions if you don’t understand something
- Share your wellness goals for your child
Ensuring Holistic Support and Coordinated Care
- Work with all professionals as a team
- Check the EHCP covers education, health, and social care areas
- Review plans regularly to see if they work
Common Challenges and Solutions
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Delays in assessment | Follow up often; ask for timeline updates |
| Confusing language | Ask for plain English explanations |
| Too many meetings | Request summaries; bring a friend for support |
| Missing wellness goals | Highlight the impact on daily life and ask for changes |
Real-Life Examples: EHCPs Supporting Wellness Success
Case Study: Supporting Emotional Wellbeing
Lucy, age 12, struggled with anxiety. Her EHCP included school counseling and a quiet space in class. Her confidence and happiness grew, leading to better grades and friendships.
Case Study: Integrating Therapeutic Interventions
Sam, age 8, had trouble talking and playing with others. His EHCP listed weekly speech therapy and a social skills group. Over time, Sam became more talkative and joined in more school activities.
Lessons Learned From Wellness-Focused EHCPs
- Listening to the child’s voice really matters
- Small wellness changes can make big differences
- Working together is key to success
EHCP Annual Review and Ongoing Wellness Monitoring
Preparing for Annual Reviews With a Whole-Child Focus
- Look at the whole picture: learning, health, emotions, and social life
- Gather feedback from teachers, therapists, and your child
- List what’s working and what needs to be better
Updating Wellness Goals and Provisions
- Set new goals if your child’s needs have changed
- Ask professionals for advice on new therapies or activities
- Check all changes are written clearly in the EHCP
When and How to Request Changes
- You can ask for an EHCP review at any time if your child’s needs change
- Send a written request to the SEN team, explaining why
- Meet to discuss new support or goals
Resources and Support for Families in 2026
Key Contacts: Local Authorities, Charities, and Wellness Networks
- Your local council’s SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) team
- Parent and Family Networks
- Charities like Contact, National Autistic Society, Scope
- Online wellness groups and forums
Where to Find Up-to-Date Information and Templates
- Government websites (e.g., gov.uk SEND pages)
- Local council portals
- Charity helplines and guides
Managing Stress and Looking After Yourself As a Parent or Caregiver
- Take time for rest and relaxation
- Reach out for help from family, friends, or professionals
- Join support groups to share experiences
Frequently Asked Questions: EHCPs and Wellness Explained
- How long does an EHCP last? Until age 25 if needed, with yearly reviews.
- Do EHCPs only cover education? No—they also cover health and care needs for full wellbeing.
- Who can ask for an EHCP? Parents, teachers, doctors, or the young person themselves.
- What if I disagree with the result? You can appeal decisions. Ask your council or a charity for help.
Key Points: An EHCP supports a child’s entire wellbeing, not just education. Involve all professionals, include wellness goals, and review the plan often. Stay calm, communicate clearly, and remember—you are your child’s best advocate.
Next Steps: If you think your child needs help, contact your local SEND team. Start collecting information, talk with their school, and get support. A wellness-focused EHCP can make a real difference in your child’s life.