The starting point for most EHCP’s is a Needs Assessment under S17 CA1989, or an EHC (Education, Health, and Care) Assessment. The Needs Assessment considers the needs of the child, the strengths and needs of the parents/carers and how looking after the child impacts their lives, the environment within which the child is living and how safe and suitable that is, and the support networks for the child and the family.
An education, health, and care (EHC) assessment is a legal process determining whether a child or young person needs an EHCP. The assessment is a multi-agency collaboration that gathers information from various professionals, including Teachers, Health visitors, Doctors, Educational psychologists, and Social care professionals.
Our Independent Social Workers are responsible for conducting the assessment. As part of the process, they will gather information and advice regarding:
– The child’s or young person’s specific needs.
– The services and support necessary to address those needs.
– The goals and outcomes expected for the child or young person.
Needs Assessments
During the assessment, one of our Independent Social Workers or occupational therapists will typically visit the home to discuss the child’s needs. They may ask for details about the child’s sleep patterns, eating habits, communication skills, and whether the parents have other children to care for.
The assessment will focus on the child’s and your own needs rather than simply what services are currently available.
Contact us today for more information on the process and timeline or to request an assessment.
We will collaborate with the following members to consult for advice and information during an assessment outlined in Regulation 6(1) of The Special Educational Needs and Disability Regulations 2014 (SEND Regulations 2014):
- The parent or the young person being assessed.
- Educational input, usually from the head teacher or principal.
- Medical advice from a healthcare professional.
- Psychological advice from an educational psychologist.
- Social care-related advice.
- Any other person the local authority deems appropriate.
- For children or young people in or beyond Year 9, advice regarding preparation for adulthood and independent living.
- Advice from anyone the parents reasonably request the local authority to consult.
Suppose the child or young person assessed has a hearing or visual impairment. In that case, the educational advice must be obtained after consulting a suitably qualified expert, as stated in SEND Regulation 6.
Understanding an EHC (Education, Health, and Care) needs assessment:
An EHC needs assessment determines if a child requires additional support through an EHCP, which provides educational, health, and care services. The local authority carries out the assessment and should not be confused with professional other evaluations by teachers or health workers.
Who Can Request an EHC Assessment?
A parent can make a formal request, the young person themselves (if over 16), or their educational setting (nursery, school, or college).
When Will the Local Authority Carry Out the Assessment?
An EHC needs assessment must be carried out if there’s evidence that the child has, or may have, special educational needs requiring further provision beyond what mainstream schools typically offer. Local authorities base their decision on the child’s needs, even if they have general checklists for guidance.
What If an Assessment Is Refused?
If the local authority declines the request, they may believe that the child’s current educational setting can provide sufficient support without an EHCP. However, parents can appeal this decision within two months by going to an independent tribunal or mediation.
What Does the Assessment Process Involve?
If the assessment goes ahead, the local authority will gather information from the child, their school, healthcare professionals (such as educational psychologists or specialists), and, if applicable, social care services. Information should include details about the child’s specific needs, support required, and anticipated outcomes.
Outcomes of the EHC Assessment
The assessment provides a foundation for creating an EHCP, outlining the services the child will receive. The local authority must inform parents within six weeks of whether an assessment will be conducted, and they will also integrate social care needs if applicable.
For families not already engaged with social care services, they can request a separate assessment for support at home or in the community.
