Chapter 1: EHCP – Where Do I Start?
Understanding the EHCP process can feel overwhelming, particularly when you are already trying to support a child or young person whose needs may not be fully understood or met.
EHCP – Where Do I Start? is the first guide in the Space to Breathe Therapy EHCP Support Series. It provides a gentle, practical introduction to Education, Health and Care Plans in England, helping parents and carers understand what an EHCP is, when one may be needed and where to begin.
Inside, the guide explores the difference between SEN Support and an EHCP, introduces the EHC needs assessment process and breaks the wider EHCP journey into more manageable steps. It also includes practical prompts to help you think about your child or young person’s needs, the support already in place, what is and isn’t working, and the evidence you may already have.
Rather than expecting you to understand the whole system at once, this chapter is designed to help you find your starting point.
It includes:
- Clear, parent/carer-friendly explanations
- Key facts and study notes
- Practical guidance and reflection prompts
- An overview of the EHCP journey
- Space to organise your own starting thoughts
- Harvard-referenced information and further support
This resource relates specifically to the SEND and EHCP system in England and provides general information rather than individual legal advice.
A useful starting point if you know something needs to change, but you’re not yet sure what the next step should be.
Space to Breathe Therapy / Support - Understand - Empower
