EHCP Help / Advice & next steps
Understanding EHCP deadlines
Deadlines can feel confusing. Start with the dates shown in your own letters and build a simple timeline.
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
Different EHCP stages have different timescales. The most useful starting point is the date a request, decision or report was sent or received.
A simple timeline helps you see what has happened, what you are waiting for and when it may be reasonable to follow up.
If a date appears to have passed, ask the local authority to confirm the current stage before deciding whether you need advice.
What to do next
Record the date of each request and decision.
Save every official letter.
Add follow-up reminders to your calendar.
Ask the local authority to confirm the current stage.
Seek independent advice if a deadline is unclear or appears to have passed.
Things to check
Which letter contains the latest decision?
When was the request received?
Are reports or responses still outstanding?
Has the local authority explained any delay?
Is there a date for responding or challenging a decision?
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 · Independent SEND adviser · School SENCO
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.