A PARENT'S GUIDE - Your Child's EHCP A Plain-English Guide for Parents

Understand your rights, read the small print,and feel confident at every stage. Written for busy parents navigating a complicated system.

Does your child have an EHCP — or are you in the middle of the process — and you’re not sure what you’re looking at?

You’re not alone. EHCPs are long, full of jargon, and the Local Authority doesn’t always explain what your rights actually are.

This plain-English guide was written for exactly that moment — when you’re sitting with a document that feels overwhelming and you just need someone to break it down for you.

What’s inside:

✅ Every section of the EHCP (A–K) explained in simple, clear language

✅ Your legal rights as a parent — and how to use them

✅ Key timelines the LA must follow — so you know when they’re running late

✅ Red flags to watch for in a draft EHCP

✅ Step-by-step guide to responding to your draft

✅ What to do if the Local Authority says no

✅ Free support services that can help you right now

✅ A full glossary of SEND terms and acronyms

This guide is for you if:

• You’ve just received a draft EHCP and don’t know where to start

• You feel like the LA holds all the power

• You want to understand the process before paying for professional support

• You’re preparing for an annual review

Please note: This is an information guide for parents and does not constitute legal advice. For advice specific to your child’s situation, contact your local SENDIASS service — it’s free.