EHCP help

[Jules912]

School have finally accepted DD needs an EHCP. She is on the waiting list to be assessed for ASD and sensory processing disorder and frequently has violent meltdowns. They're asking for a part time 1-to-1 to help manage her behaviour ( she seems to struggle most in the afternoons). Is there anything else I should ask for?

Hi, it is the LA that needs to agree to conduct an assessment of whether an EHCP is needed and on the basis of that assessment, plus other reports that you commission, an EHCP is issued. This will take time and likely have disagreements between you and the local authority. Suggest looking at SOSSEN or IPSEA for detailed info

Thanks, what are the other reports?

Generally

• Educational psychologist
• occupational therapist
• speech and language therapist

SOSSEN keep a list of professionals you could consider. But that would probably be for later in the EHCP process

What provision should be in an EHCP depends individual needs. Provision in EHCPs is taken from the assessment reports so it depends on what is included in those. Provision won’t be included just because you ask for it.

As part of the needs assessment the LA must seek advice from:
a) the child’s parent or the young person;
b) educational advice (usually from the head teacher or principal);
c) medical advice and information from a health care professional;
d) psychological advice and information from an educational psychologist;
e) advice and information in relation to social care;
f) advice and information from any other person the local authority thinks appropriate;
g) where the child or young person is in or beyond year 9, advice and information in relation to provision to assist the child or young person in preparation for adulthood and independent living; and
h) advice and information from any person the child’s parent or young person reasonably requests that the local authority seek advice from.

H can include SALT, OT, psychiatrist, clinical psychologist for example.

As DD has ASD SALT and OT are likely to be helpful. Maybe some form of mental health therapy.

Unless you have to appeal the EHCP process starts 20 weeks from start to finish.

Thanks, really helpful. Off to look at SOSSEN now.