EHCP Help / Advice & next steps
Preparing for an annual review
The review is a chance to check whether the plan still reflects current needs and whether agreed support is happening.
Quick answer
Start with the latest letter, the support currently in place and the next date or decision you are waiting for. Keep copies and ask for plain-English clarification if anything is unclear.
What this means
An annual review looks at progress, changing needs, current provision and whether the EHCP should stay the same or be amended.
Families can share what is working, what is not being delivered and what may need to change for the next year or an upcoming transition.
Preparing a few priorities in advance can make the meeting feel more focused and help create clearer actions.
What to do next
Read the current plan before the meeting.
Write down changes in need or circumstances.
Gather recent reports and examples.
Share your views before the review where possible.
Ask for clear actions, owners and follow-up dates.
Things to check
Has all provision in the plan been delivered?
Are outcomes still appropriate?
Are recent school and professional reports available?
Have your child’s views been included?
Is a transition or change of placement approaching?
Questions to ask
What support or decision is currently in place?
What evidence has been considered or may still be missing?
What is the next action, who is responsible and when should it happen?
Local Northamptonshire route
Families in Northamptonshire can check the relevant local authority SEND route for West Northamptonshire or North Northamptonshire. Local SENDIASS services can offer free, impartial information and support.
Free support and useful links
External free resource
West Northamptonshire SENDIASS
Free, impartial SEND information, advice and support for families in West Northamptonshire.
External free resource
North Northamptonshire SENDIASS
Free, impartial SEND information, advice and support for families in North Northamptonshire.
External free resource
Northamptonshire Local Offer
Local SEND information, services and support routes for children and young people.
External free resource
GOV.UK SEND information
Official information about special educational needs, EHC plans and support.
External free resource
IPSEA
Free SEND law information and resources for parents and carers.
External free resource
Council for Disabled Children
National resources and information about SEND support and policy.
Professional help is available if you need it
Many families use free information and school support first. Professional help is optional and may be useful if evidence is complicated, communication has stalled or you want help understanding your choices.
What happens next?
Your next step depends on the decision or stage you are at. Keep records, confirm actions in writing and use free advice before deciding whether additional support would help.
Support that may help
School SENCO · SEND advocate · Educational psychologist · Relevant therapist
Helpful free resources
SEND Compass provides general information to help families understand possible next steps. It does not replace legal, medical or local authority 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.