Ceasing to maintain an EHC plan

Also called Ceasing to maintain an Education, Health and Care plan. That is the name used in diagnostic manuals and on most official paperwork.

The legal name for a local authority ending a child's EHC plan. You can appeal, and the plan must stay in force until the appeal is finished.

Applies in England

A local authority Local authority Your local council. In England, Wales and Scotland, this is the body you ask to assess what extra help your child needs. Read the full definition of Local authority can only end an EHC plan EHCP A legal document, used in England, that sets out a child's needs and the support they must get. It is for children who need more help than their school can give on its own. Read the full definition of EHCP in two situations: it is no longer responsible for your child, for example because they have moved away, or it decides the plan is no longer necessary. If you disagree, you can appeal to the SEND Tribunal. The part many parents are never told: while your appeal is running, the plan and all the support in it must carry on. Do not let a school or local authority stop provision early. This applies in England.

Where this comes from

Children and Families Act 2014, section 45: Ceasing to maintain an EHC plan , legislation.gov.uk. Checked 2026-08-14.

Back to the glossary

Your child doesn't need a diagnosis to get support

Start with a profile of your child. See what we find. Go from there.