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EHCP Timeline Helper
Step 1 of 2 • A local guidance helper for typical EHCP process stages.
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The standard EHCP timeline at a glance
This shows the usual sequence where each stage applies. A request may end earlier if the authority decides not to assess or not to issue a plan.
1
Request received
The timeline normally starts when the local authority receives the EHC needs assessment request.
6
Within 6 weeks
Decision whether to carry out an EHC needs assessment.
A
Assessment and evidence gathering
If assessment is agreed, the authority gathers information and advice.
16
Around the 16-week stage
Decision whether an EHC plan will be issued; this is not a universal draft-plan deadline.
D
Draft EHC plan
At least 15 days for representations, a meeting request and an education-setting preference where applicable.
20
Within 20 weeks
Final EHC plan where one is issued, unless a statutory exception applies.
1. EHC needs assessment request received
The timeline normally begins when the local authority receives the request. Keep evidence of the date submitted, the date received or acknowledged, and the confirmation email or letter.
2. The 6-week decision
The authority should normally tell you within six weeks whether it will carry out an EHC needs assessment. If it refuses, the decision letter should explain the reasons and the available route for disagreement.
3. The assessment period
If assessment is agreed, the authority gathers information and advice to decide whether an EHC plan is required. Around week 16, it should communicate whether it intends to issue a plan; week 16 should not be described as a universal draft-plan deadline.
4. Draft EHC plan
Where a plan is proposed, the parent or young person receives a draft and must be given at least 15 days to make representations, request a meeting and express a preference for an education setting.
5. The 20-week point
Where an EHC plan is being issued, the final plan should normally be issued within 20 weeks of the original request being received, unless a statutory exception applies.
What if the EHCP process is taking longer than 20 weeks?
The calculated date is based on the standard statutory timetable, and certain statutory exceptions can affect timescales. You can ask the local authority for a written update and whether it considers an exception to apply. Keep a written record of dates and correspondence. SENDIASS may provide free independent information and support, and independent SEND advice may also be available.
When does the 20-week EHCP clock start?
It normally starts when the local authority receives the original EHC needs assessment request. Keep the acknowledgement or other evidence of receipt.
Is the EHCP process always 20 weeks?
No. A request may end earlier if assessment or a plan is refused, and statutory exceptions can affect the standard timetable. The 20-week point applies where a plan is being issued.
How long does the council have to decide whether to assess?
The standard decision point is within six weeks of receiving the request. The authority should communicate whether it will carry out an EHC needs assessment.
What happens after the local authority agrees to assess?
It gathers information and advice about needs, outcomes and provision, then decides whether an EHC plan is necessary.
What happens around week 16?
The authority should normally decide and communicate whether it intends to issue an EHC plan. It is not a universal deadline for receiving a draft plan.
How long do parents have to respond to a draft EHCP?
Where a draft is issued, the parent or young person must be given at least 15 days to make representations, request a meeting and express a setting preference.
What happens if the council refuses to assess?
The written decision should explain the reasons and disagreement route. Keep the letter, check its dates and consider free independent advice before deciding what to do next.
What can I do if the EHCP timeline has passed?
Ask for a written update, ask whether a statutory exception is being relied on, and keep a dated record. SENDIASS or independent SEND advice can help you understand the next proportionate step.
Use these guides for the stage or decision you are dealing with now.
If you live in Northamptonshire, SEND Lantern also provides local guidance covering EHCP routes, free support and relevant professional help across North and West Northamptonshire.
The calculator is based on the standard statutory EHC needs assessment and EHC plan timescales in England. It provides indicative dates only and does not determine how the rules apply to an individual case.
Last reviewed: August 2026
SEND Lantern is an independent guidance platform and is not part of the NHS, a local authority, a school or an individual service provider. This is general information and should not be treated as legal, medical or educational advice.
Independent guidance for families
SEND Lantern is an independent guidance platform operated by SEND Lantern Ltd. We help families explore special educational needs and disabilities support, possible next steps and relevant services. SEND Lantern is not part of the NHS, a local authority, a school or any individual service provider. Information on this website is general guidance and should not be treated as medical, legal or educational advice.