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UKNeuroGuide · Benefit guide

Education, Health and Care Plan – EHCP

Based on official GOV.UK and NHS guidance. Eligibility depends on the child or young person’s educational, health, and care needs.

An Education, Health and Care Plan provides legal support for children and young people with special educational needs or disabilities. It ensures the right support is provided in education, health, and daily development.

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Guidance only. Not legal advice. Rules can change — always check official sources.
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Overview

An Education, Health and Care Plan ensures children receive the support they need to learn and develop safely.
It provides legal protection and ensures support services are delivered.
EHCPs help improve education outcomes and overall wellbeing.
Many neurodivergent children benefit significantly from EHCP support.

Important
Eligibility rules can be complex and can change. Always check official guidance and get advice if you can.

Who it’s for

  • Children and young people aged up to 25.
  • Children with autism, ADHD, or neurodevelopmental conditions.
  • Children who need more support than schools can normally provide.
  • Children struggling with learning, communication, or behaviour due to disability.
  • Young people needing ongoing educational support.

Eligibility

  • The child or young person must have special educational needs or a disability.
  • Their needs must require additional support beyond standard school support.
  • An assessment must be completed by the local authority.
  • Eligibility is based on needs, not diagnosis alone.
  • You must apply through your local authority.
Reminder
This page is guidance only — it can’t confirm whether you will be awarded a benefit.

Eligible conditions

Conditions commonly linked to this benefit.

View all conditions
ADHD — UK eligibility guide
Condition

ADHD UK | Symptoms, Diagnosis and Support Guide

Common eligibility
Autism (Autism Spectrum Condition) — UK eligibility guide
Condition

Autism | Symptoms, Diagnosis and Support Guide

Common eligibility
Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) — UK eligibility guide
Condition

Developmental Language Disorder DLD UK | Symptoms and Support Guide

Common eligibility

How it works

  • You request an EHCP assessment through your local authority.
  • Professionals assess the child’s education, health, and care needs.
  • The local authority decides whether to issue an EHCP.
  • If approved, the plan outlines required support.
  • Schools and services must follow the plan.

How to apply

  • Contact your local authority and request an EHCP assessment.
  • Provide information about the child’s needs.
  • Submit supporting reports if available.
  • Participate in the assessment process.
  • Wait for the local authority decision.
Ask a question

Evidence to prepare

  • School reports.
  • Medical or diagnosis reports.
  • Educational psychologist reports if available.
  • Statements from teachers or specialists.
  • Information about daily challenges and needs.

Assessment tips

  • Clearly describe the child’s needs and challenges.
  • Provide detailed examples.
  • Include professional reports where possible.
  • Explain how needs affect education and daily life.
Tip
Use real examples from daily life — what happens on difficult days, not only on good days.

Common mistakes

  • Waiting for the school to apply instead of applying yourself.
  • Not providing enough evidence.
  • Assuming diagnosis alone guarantees approval.
  • Not challenging incorrect decisions.

If you’re refused

  • You can request a review.
  • You can appeal the decision.
  • You can provide additional evidence.
  • Support organisations can help guide you.
Deadlines matter
Challenges and appeals often have strict time limits — get advice as early as possible.

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