EHCP Help / Advice & next steps
Reviewing a draft or issued EHCP
You may want to review the plan one section at a time. You do not need to spot everything in one reading.
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 EHCP should clearly describe needs, outcomes, provision and placement. The wording should reflect the evidence gathered during assessment.
Support is easier to understand when it says who will provide it, what they will do, how often it will happen and how progress will be reviewed.
If something important is missing or unclear, note the section and compare it with the relevant professional report before asking questions.
What to do next
Read the plan alongside professional reports.
Check that every identified need is included.
Look for specific and measurable provision.
Note missing or unclear wording.
Ask for advice before agreeing to wording you do not understand.
Things to check
Are needs described accurately?
Are outcomes clear and realistic?
Does provision say who, what, how often and for how long?
Is placement information correct?
Do reports recommend support that is missing from the plan?
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
SEND advocate · School SENCO · Educational psychologist · Speech and language therapist · Occupational 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.