What to ask for in EHCP ? Anxiety / School refusal issues

[QuestionAir]

I have (finally) just had it confirmed that my LA will issue an EHCP but I have spent so much time and energy getting to this point that I’ve realised I haven’t particularly considered what should go in it …….

VERY long story summarised. DS (9) has not been in the classroom for nearly 2 years due to high levels of anxiety. No formal diagnosis (LA will only accept CAMHS evidence. Currently on their very long waiting list) but almost unofficially acknowledged by everyone that most likely outcome is a diagnosis of ASD with PDA. During absence DS has received VERY minimal EOTAS provisions (home tuition) where there has been varying levels of engagement on his part. When in the classroom he was at age expected levels - but is now behind due to the time missed.

Goal is to get him back into a classroom but attempts so far (both at his old school and a neighbouring school) have failed miserably. The home tuition has not been a raging success either. Doesn’t seem to be any specialist setting in our area that would suit him (and even if there were I fear he would still refuse to attend). Parents obviously want what is best for him - but selfishly want him back in a setting (mainstream or otherwise) as having him at home 24/7 has taken it’s toll on everyone and everything ….

All the very vague draft EHCP provisions assume he is in a classroom setting and has been drafted without the LA having a full picture of his needs (I made the relevant request for them to obtain CAMHS evidence but they agreed to the EHCP without it) so whilst the plan clearly needs revising I’m not sure what best to argue. Not sure if I should be pushing for a full EOTAS package even though that’s not the long term plan (the LA are aware of this) and it hasn’t been a great success. Or press that they complete the evidence first ?

This is all a bit rambled - but has anyone been in a similar position and have any wise words ?

Thanks in advance.

Provision in EHCPs is taken from the reports, so what do they detail? Unfortunately, if the reports are vague, woolly or haven’t been undertaken, the EHCP will be vague and woolly and without all the required provision.

It isn’t lawful for the LA to have a blanket policy of only accepting evidence from CAMHS.

DS will require therapies - OT, SALT, some form of MH therapy (e.g. animal-assisted therapy, play therapy, art therapy). You could also look at Mindjam. What does DS enjoy doing now - art, game, sports, music, cooking?

What you have had so far isn’t a comprehensive EOTAS package that can be secured via an EHCP. It is provision under s.19 of the Education Act 1996, and whilst that provision should have been better (it should have been a suitable full-time education) provision that can be part of EOTAS via an EHCP has a far greater scope.

EOTAS doesn’t have to take place at home full-time and the provision can be amended, so DS is supported so he can reach the point where he can engage. Have you looked at APs? What about EOTAS taking place outside of the house? Time spent accessing the community? Also, even if some or all of the provision takes place at home you cannot be compelled to organised, deliver or facilitate the provision. It is the LA’s responsibility.

Thanks so much for your time replying - really helpful and given me lots more to consider. Thanks in particular for the Mindjam info - never heard of it but looks like it would be right up DS street (gaming is probably the only thing he consistently enjoys …. !)

If DS enjoys gaming, you could also look at Gecko, Spectrum gaming (although I think their applications are closed at the moment) and, if you are by any chance within travelling distance, Overworld Academy in Surrey.

There is also Geeks Room in Leeds. I am sure there are other providers with a gaming focus too, these are just the ones I can remember off the top of my head.

Thanks again - this has been really helpful. We are on the South Coast - so now I know this is a ‘thing’ I’ll have a google for local providers.

In which case, look whether Tubers Academy is within travelling distance. You could also look at Code ninja.