What are the negatives (of any) to getting an EHCP?

[Thingstodotwo]

I would really love some input as totally in the dark (despite my own research). My DC was assessed as being ‘mildly’ dyslexic by an Ed Psych a couple of years ago. School says they are offering what DC needs in terms of support. I just don’t think it’s the case but I have tried to have faith that they know better than me. DCs reading and writing age at year 2, they are year 4. I recently saw work created by classmates and it’s whole new level. Do I push for a reassessment and/or EHCP. I feel I’m one of these people that doesn’t like yo cause a fuss but I also don’t want to fail my DC by not being his advocate. If I looked to move him to private education is it better to do this with or without EHCP in place? Would a “non-academic” school (despite what they may say publicly) be less likely to accept DC? Thanks!

This has been so helpful and that website has empowered me! Thank you so so much!

You're welcome, OP. It's not straightforward at all. My mind is regularly boggled.

Hi OP, can I ask which (if any) of the bits of brilliant advice here you've implemented since you first posted? We're developing a screener tool in partnership with the University of Cambridge to try and give schools and LAs more information about children who might have additional support needs (particularly for those who might not at first glance appear 'obvious' first candidates for an EHCP). We've found that wait times and difficulties with the EHCP process are putting lots of parents off. So I'd be really interested to hear how your situation has developed since you first posted in Jan, and what bits of advice helped! Thanks!

Cogsawhirring Who is “we”?

I’m sceptical of a screening tool that will potentially be used by LA’s as a way of attempting to duck their statutory duties. What are you doing to ensure it is used to complement statutory processes rather than instead of complying with the law?

To explain, the threshold for an EHCNA is relatively low - a) has or may have SEN, and b) may need SEN provision to be made via an EHCP.

One way parents can show their DC meets the threshold is by demonstrating a full needs assessment is the only way to know DC’s difficulties and what SEP is required. So, LAs and schools don’t require a screening tool in order to gain further information about a child with SEN “who might not at first glance appear 'obvious' first candidates for an EHCP”. They should merely comply with the law.

A agree with @JustKeepBuilding - can’t see a screening tool is needed per se - should be the case that those two key questions should be being asked about every child, to pick up the need in early course. I feel there are kids that slip through and continue ploughing on until there’s a real issue (for me that would come at secondary school eve the local state would struggle to support - overburdened SEN department).

For me the help has been in knowing my legal position on asking for an EHCP. I’ve just been going with what the school have told me (being fobbed off I feel - because they don’t want to put in the groundwork?) but now I know more to help me push forward, with or without their support.

For me the help has been in knowing my legal position on asking for an EHCP. I’ve just been going with what the school have told me (being fobbed off I feel - because they don’t want to put in the groundwork?) but now I know more to help me push forward, with or without their support.

This sums it up well. Unfortunately, DC whose parents know the law and how to enforce DC’s rights get better support. It shouldn’t be that way, but it is and isn’t going to change any time soon. Empowering parents to be able to advocate for themselves and their DC rather than take the word of LAs, schools and too often SENDIASS is the best way of ensuring DC get the support they need.

Thanks for your insights, both. They're really helpful.

@JustKeepBuilding to answer your question about who 'we' are, I'm the co-founder of a company called Cogs, and we're developing a suite of software products to help neurodiverse children and teenagers. The screener project is one of two technologies we're working on at the moment. (The other is a digital coach for children with autism and ADHD).

I think the point you both make around empowering parents is clearly really important here, so I will take that away with me and think on how a screener might help parents to petition LAs and schools more effectively on behalf of DC. Thank you both so much!