Last reviewed: March 2026
Written by: School of Diversity SEND Support Team
Topic: Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP)
This guide is designed to help parents understand the EHCP process in England and is regularly updated to reflect SEND guidance and procedures.
School Says My Child Doesn’t Need an EHCP – What Can I Do?
If a school says a child does not need an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), parents can still request an EHC needs assessment directly from their local authority. Schools do not decide whether an EHCP is issued. The local authority must consider whether the child’s needs require support beyond what schools can normally provide through SEN support.
Key Takeaways
Schools do not decide whether a child receives an EHCP.
Parents have the right to request an EHC needs assessment directly from the local authority.
An EHCP may be considered when a child needs support beyond SEN support.
Evidence from school reports, professionals, and parents can support an assessment request.
If the local authority refuses an assessment, parents may challenge the decision.
Many parents explore the EHCP process after noticing their child struggling in school despite receiving additional support. In some situations, schools may say that a child does not need an EHCP and that SEN support is sufficient.
This can be confusing and frustrating for parents who feel their child requires more support. Understanding how EHCP decisions are made can help parents recognise their options and the steps they can take next.
Who Decides Whether a Child Gets an EHCP?
Direct answer:
The local authority decides whether to carry out an EHC needs assessment and whether to issue an Education, Health and Care Plan.
Schools may provide input about a child’s needs and the support already provided. However, the final decision about whether an EHCP is required is made by the local authority, not the school.
Parents can request an EHC needs assessment themselves, even if the school does not recommend one.
When SEN Support May Not Be Enough
Direct answer:
An EHCP may be considered when a child requires support beyond what schools can normally provide through SEN support.
Examples may include:
limited progress despite interventions
significant learning difficulties
emotional or behavioural challenges affecting learning
communication or sensory needs
the need for specialist support such as therapy
When these needs significantly affect a child’s ability to access education, an EHCP may be appropriate.
Can Parents Request an EHCP Assessment?
Direct answer:
Yes. Parents can request an EHC needs assessment directly from the local authority.
Parents do not need permission from the school to make this request. The request can usually be made in writing to the local authority responsible for education in the child’s area.
Once the request is received, the local authority will decide whether to carry out the assessment.
Gathering Evidence to Support Your Request
Direct answer:
Evidence helps demonstrate why additional support may be required.
Useful evidence may include:
school SEN support records
reports from teachers or SEN coordinators
professional assessments
therapy reports
parent observations about the child’s difficulties
This information helps the local authority understand how the child’s needs affect their ability to access education.
What Happens if the Local Authority Refuses?
If the local authority decides not to carry out an assessment or not to issue an EHCP, parents still have options.
These may include:
requesting mediation
gathering additional evidence
appealing the decision through the SEND Tribunal
Understanding these options can help parents continue advocating for the support their child may need.
FAQ
Can a school refuse to apply for an EHCP?
A school may decide not to request an assessment, but parents can still request an EHC needs assessment themselves.
Does the school decide whether my child gets an EHCP?
No. The decision is made by the local authority.
What if the school says SEN support is enough?
Parents can still request an assessment if they believe their child requires additional support.
What if the local authority refuses an EHCP assessment?
Parents may challenge the decision through mediation or appeal.
Explore More EHCP Guidance
If you are unsure whether your child may need additional support, you can explore our complete EHCP guide for parents which explains every stage of the process, from understanding what an EHCP is to applying for an assessment and reviewing a plan. You may also find our guides on Signs Your Child May Need an EHCP, What Level of Need Qualifies for an EHCP, and How to Apply for an EHCP helpful if you are considering requesting an EHC needs assessment.