EHCP Question

[LondonPsych]

I'm considering applying for an EHCP for my DD. Am I right in thinking that my DD should have evidence in place before this (Ed Psych, OT etc) before I apply? Or is it the LA's task to request these assessments?

She has an ASD diagnosis (private) but I can't really afford to get the other assessments done and waiting lists are crazy...

LA should commission reports from all relevant professionals if your application for a needs assessment is agreed. LA might try to tell you that these people aren't relevant as they don't currently work with your child, but they're wrong. If she has OT needs, they should be consulting an OT.

You don’t need EP, SALT, OT etc. assessments before you apply for an EHCNA. You only have to prove DD a) has or may have SEN, and b) may need SEN provision to be made via an EHCP.

If the LA agree to assess during the EHCNA 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 things like SALT and OT.

@JustKeepBuilding Can C or H include CAMHS? IE if a child is on CAMHS waiting list, can EHCNA force this to speed up?

H can include psychiatrist &/or clinical psychologist assessments. You would want to make the request specific rather than CAMHS otherwise it could be anyone from CAMHS.