Hounslow Local Offer

Does my child need a diagnosis to get an EHCP?	No - this is incorrect.
Does a diagnosis automatically get my child an EHCP?	No - this is incorrect.
Does my child need to be a number of years behind academically to get an EHCP?	No - this is incorrect.
Can my child's EHCP be put on hold?	No - a plan can only be active or ceased. If ceased, a new EHC Needs Assessment must be undertaken to get a new one.
Do the school have to have spent the full £6000 SEN Support budget on help for my child before an EHCP can be considered?	No - this is incorrect. However, you are entitled to ask how the money is spent!
Should the school conduct an 'Assess, Plan, Do, Review' process with my child?	Yes - they should do this. This process helps support the information that the EHC Panel has to make their decision.
Is the EHC Panel open to the public?	No. The panel is made up of professionals who discuss multiple different cases. It is closed to the public to protect the privacy and information of other families.
What can I do to help the EHC Panel in making a decision on my EHC Assessment Request?	No two cases are the same and each are judged on an individual basis. Ensuring enough information is provided from Schools, Parent Carers, Young People and/or other Professionals will help support the EHC Panel in their decision process.
What happens when my child turns 16-years old?	Legally, they are classed as a Young Person. The law states that the LA must listen to the Young Person's wishes unless they lack capacity under the Mental Capacity Act 2005. It is important to remember that people have a right to make their own decisions, even if they are unwise!
Is an Annual Review the only way I can get my child's EHCP edited?	Yes. The Annual Review is not just a normal meeting. Anything agreed at the meeting will be issued and cannot be changed until the next Annual Review - usually a whole year later! It is really important to make sure you take the opportunity to put your views across and work with the LA and Education Setting to get the best outcome for your child!