Recommendations for an educational psychologist in the East Midlands for EHCP evidence

[Sakyura]

Hi all! Can anyone recommend an EP in the East Midlands area that would be able to help asap. I’m looking to apply for an EHCP before my child (ASD, ADHD, DCD) goes up to secondary school and want to get reports beforehand - he is a high masker, is in mainstream classes (few subjects he has interventions for) but does not communicate needs voluntarily, struggles socially massively, has OT needs, has SALT needs, has issues that put him at risk of danger, coercion and being bullied. Any contact details or idea of cost would be appreciated too if possible - thanks in advance

Unfortunately, unless you are lucky with a cancellation, which do crop up, anyone good will have a wait. Some have very long waiting lists. EPs who are good and can write good tribunal standard report, which is what you want, are in demand, especially at this time of year.

Depending where in East Mids you are, you could look at Lyndsey Price and Phillipa Grace in Yorkshire. Also, Anthony Hallett although he prefers to work with people who have representation so he may decline to take on your case. Different direction, depending on where in East Mids you are, you could look at Katie Hinds in Manchester. You could also look at Carolyn Smith. In another direction again, depending on where you are, Melanie Hartgill is based on Oxfordshire and will travel a short distance. You could also look at Nick Logan.

Nick Palmer will often travel. Peter Parkhouse and Craig Tribe will also sometimes travel that far.

Lots travel further for EP assessments. If you are willing to travel further, shout and I can give you some other suggestions.

Prices vary widely. Price doesn’t always correspond with how good they are. You are looking at anything up to a few thousand.

Thank you very much for your suggestions - I will have a look :)

Thanks for your message!

I have reports from his assessments and emails trying to get support from the school and about incidents that have occurred showing his vulnerability. The school don’t support an EHCP (I was told as his needs are being met academically he won’t get one), the social gap is growing between peers, he is struggling with his friends and being left out of games… His learning plans have been mostly focused around academics - though I have asked repeatedly for more. I’ve had to question statements on them too which play issues down or make them seem like they are new. It’s a bit of a mine field. Really appreciate the advice!

Personally, I wouldn’t bother getting an EP report prior to submitting an EHCNA request. Firstly, the legal test for a EHCNA is relatively low - a) has or may have SEN, and b) may need special educational provision to be made via an EHCP. Most can meet that test without the need for an independent EP assessment. Secondly, I wouldn’t want to delay submitting the request. Thirdly, unless money is no object, I would save your money. If, for example, the LA agrees to assess but you have to appeal refusal to issue or the content, you may decide the EP report from the EHCNA will do. Not brilliant, but will suffice and you need to target your money towards, e.g. an independent OT or SALT assessment.

Thank you for your advice :) Yeah that makes sense - I’ve already sorted the independent OT and a few other bits. I can’t afford to throw money away but I guess I’m trying to help make it as thorough as possible in the hope it can be sorted before September 2027….