EHCP question

[vasillisa]

Just reading SEND code of practice ch 9 all about EHCPs. It talks about co-ordinating meetings.

Is applying for an EHCP a meeting heavy process?

As DS has had a million and one hospital appts this year I am already at only 2 days of Annual leave left at work...though am p time (health reasons) so afternoon meetings are an option.

What about if it goes to appeal? DH is self employed but any time off is unpaid so we have to tread a careful line as we are not rolling in pennies right now, plus I want to be there as advocate.

Not really. If an EHCP is granted, some local authorities like to have a meeting to discuss things like outcomes and the preliminary draft, and parents have a right to ask for a meeting.

For appeals, if you have to appeal against a refusal to assess (the first stage) that would be dealt with on the papers, so no hearing. Appeals against refusals to issue and the contents of EHCPs do usually involve a hearing: you can ask for the case to be dealt with solely on the basis of the papers, but that's quite risky.

You might find SOS SEN's booklets helpful - www.sossen.org/shop/index.php?cPath=22

Great thanks Acis

I agree with Acis - a lot can be done by e-mail.
The Children and Families Bill was very clear that it wanted culture change on 'including and valuing the child / parents voice', hence there are 'opportunities' to meet, rather than 'compulsory meetings' IYSWIM.

I can’t be much help to your question but it’s loosely related so any advice please? My son has recently been diagnosed with ADD, Autism and Dyspraxia. School failed to identify this and because of the waiting list with CAMHS we went private. Since his diagnosis the head teach keeps challenging his diagnosis and reports from paediatrician, clinical psychologist and now today the occupational therapist. She refuses meetings with us until we can bring in all external agencies next is autism outreach is this fair is she able to do this? Is an EHCP the only way to get his needs met? Any help I didn’t know where to post