Refusal to assess

After someone asks for an EHC needs assessment EHC needs assessment The process, in England, where the local authority looks in detail at your child's needs and decides whether to write an EHCP. You can ask for one yourself. Read the full definition of EHC needs assessment , the 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 decides whether to carry one out. If it decides not to, that is a refusal to assess, and the letter should explain why and tell you about your right to appeal.

GOV.UK is plain that this decision is appealable: you can appeal Appeal A formal challenge to the SEND Tribunal about a council's EHC decision. It is free to bring, and you do not need a lawyer. Read the full definition of Appeal if the local authority refuses to carry out an EHC assessment or reassessment. Appeals go to the SEND Tribunal SEND Tribunal If the council says no, you can appeal to the SEND Tribunal. It is separate from the council, and it can order them to assess your child or to change an EHC plan. Read the full definition of SEND Tribunal , and SENDIASS, the free advice service in every area, can help you with the process.

Refusals are common, and a large share of the parents who appeal succeed. A refusal is also not the end of the road in other ways: your child should still get SEN support SEN support The everyday help a school in England puts in place for a child with special educational needs. It is based on what your child needs, not on having a diagnosis. Read the full definition of SEN support at school, and you can ask again later with more evidence.