What Support Should Be Included in an EHCP?
Understanding what should be included in an EHCP is essential if you want to make sure your child receives the right support.
An EHCP is not just a description of needs. It is a legally binding document that must clearly set out the support required to help your child succeed in education.
What Does an EHCP Actually Include?
An EHCP is made up of different sections, but one of the most important is the provision section. This is where the support your child will receive is detailed.
Support must be:
- Specific
- Clearly described
- Quantified where possible
Vague wording can make it difficult to ensure the right support is delivered.
Examples of Support That May Be Included
Support will vary depending on your child’s needs, but common examples include:
One-to-One Support
This may involve a teaching assistant helping your child during lessons to support learning and engagement.
Specialist Teaching
Some children need targeted teaching approaches tailored to their learning style or specific difficulties.
Speech and Language Therapy
Children with communication needs may require regular input from a speech and language therapist.
Occupational Therapy
This can help with fine motor skills, coordination, and sensory regulation.
Emotional and Behavioural Support
Support may include strategies to help your child manage emotions, build confidence, and feel secure in school.
Why Specific Wording Matters
One of the most common issues with EHCPs is vague wording.
For example:
- “Access to support” is unclear
- “30 minutes daily support” is specific
The more precise the wording, the easier it is to ensure the support is actually delivered.
What If the Support Is Not Enough?
If you feel the EHCP does not include the right support, you have options.
You can:
- Request changes during the draft stage
- Raise concerns during annual reviews
- Appeal the contents of the EHCP
You can read more about this in how to appeal an EHCP decision.
Working With the School
Schools play a key role in delivering EHCP support.
Regular communication helps ensure:
- Support is being implemented
- Adjustments are working
- Your child is making progress
Frequently Asked Questions: EHCP Support
What support should be included in an EHCP?
Support should be tailored to your child’s needs and may include one-to-one assistance, specialist teaching, therapies, and emotional support.
Can an EHCP include therapy services?
Yes, EHCPs can include services such as speech and language therapy or occupational therapy if they are necessary for your child’s development.
What does specific support mean in an EHCP?
Specific support clearly states what will be provided, how often, and for how long. This ensures accountability.
Can I request changes to EHCP support?
Yes, you can request changes during the draft stage or through the annual review process.
What if the school is not following the EHCP?
Schools are legally required to deliver the support outlined. If they are not, you can raise concerns with the local authority.
Can support be increased after an EHCP is issued?
Yes, support can be adjusted if your child’s needs change or if the current provision is not effective.
Who decides what support is included?
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Final Thoughts
An EHCP should provide clear, structured support that reflects your child’s individual needs.
If the support is not specific or detailed enough, it may not deliver the outcomes your child needs.
If you want to understand how support fits into the full process, you can explore our comprehensive EHCP guide, which explains each stage in detail.