What is an education, health and care plan? (ECHP)

Most children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) will have their needs met by mainstream nurseries, schools and colleges.

An EHC plan is for children and young people aged 0 to 25 who need additional special educational provision. It will identify educational, health and social needs and set out additional support to meet those needs.

An EHC plan is a chance to share your views about your child’s wellbeing, and their hopes and dreams for the future. The plan will highlight your child’s strengths and educational needs, provide a set of outcomes which will describe what your child can achieve. An EHC plan is legally binding and will explain in detail to an education setting what support they and other services must provide.