EHCP vs Hospital Outreach, v confused

[LittlePickleHead]

I know I need to speak to SENDIASS on this but was hopeful someone knowledgeable on here might be able to help as time isn't on our side (and SENDIASS take a while to get back).

Basically, DS12 (ASD) is in EHCP process, has had the needs assessment, I would imagine it's going to panel soon.

He burnt out of year 7 last year (EBSNA), was online educated from Jan - July, and wanted to try back in school. He got a place at a school with great SEN provision and has been trying so hard but it's getting harder and harder and he's now unable to make it in again.

They have suggested a referral to the Hospital Outreach Programme which actually sounds like a really good idea, virtual learning combined with face to face tutoring for maths and english, with the objective of understanding his needs and supporting him into the right provision.

However, the criteria for HOP is no EHCP. So I'm really confused what happens if he gets the EHCP, does it have to stop? What if the EHCP says he has to attend the mainstream school again, even though they are saying they can't meet his needs? Can we refuse the EHCP so he can continue at HOP? But what if they recommend an AP that needs an EHCP?

Why is this all so confusing and hard. Does anyone have any experience or insight?

Be careful with SENDIASS. Some are good but too many repeat the LA’s unlawful policies.

It is local policy that HOP isn’t for those without EHCPs, not law. That provision can be provided to DC with EHCPs. As can the same type of provision but not via HOP.

A growing number of pupils have EOTAS/EOTIS packages via their EHCPs.

An EHCP can provide far more than section 19 provision can. Including therapeutic provision, which sounds very important for DS. An EHCP will also be important post 16, when there isn’t the same duty on the LA to provide education for those unable to attend. Post 16 seems a long way away, but it is important to think about well before you get to it.

If the LA name MS on an EHCP, you appeal.

Thanks that is really helpful. I’m just nervous about the scenario where we have to appeal as I know how long that takes and we really need some stability for DS as he isn’t able to access learning at all at the moment. But I guess in that scenario section 19 will still apply and so he’ll have to have some AP provision?

If you need to appeal and DS isn’t attending school full time, you can request an expedited hearing on that basis.

Where it is still relevant, s19 still applies.