Many parents reach a point where they know something isn’t working, but aren’t sure what to do next.
You may have concerns about support not being delivered, needs not being reflected accurately, or outcomes that no longer feel realistic.
This page explains the main options available when an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is not meeting a child or young person’s needs — and how to decide what your next step should be.
Annual Reviews
Annual reviews are intended to make sure an EHCP remains accurate, relevant, and effective.
In practice, reviews often focus on process rather than substance.
Common issues we see include:
- Needs that have changed but are not updated in Section B
- Provision being reduced or described more vaguely
- Recommendations from professionals not being reflected in the final plan
An annual review can be a valuable opportunity — but only if the EHCP itself clearly and legally reflects the child’s needs.
Mediation
Mediation is offered as an alternative to tribunal in some disputes with the local authority.
It can be useful in limited circumstances, but it does not resolve fundamental problems with the content of an EHCP.
It’s important to understand that:
- Mediation does not force changes to Sections B or F
- Agreements rely on what is already written in the plan
- A poorly drafted EHCP limits what can realistically be agreed
Going into mediation without a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the EHCP often leaves parents feeling frustrated and unheard.
Tribunal Appeals
Appeals to the SEND Tribunal usually focus on:
- Section B (needs)
- Section F (provision)
- Section I (placement)
Successful appeals are not about arguing harder — they rely on clear evidence and a legally robust plan.
If needs are missing, provision is vague, or links between Sections B and F are weak, appeals become more complex and stressful than they need to be.
Understanding what is — and is not — properly specified in the EHCP is essential before starting this process.
Before You Do Anything Else
Annual reviews, mediation, and tribunal appeals all rely on the same document:
the EHCP itself.
If the plan does not accurately set out needs, quantify provision, or reflect professional advice, every option becomes harder.
Before committing time, energy, or money to the next step, it is often helpful to understand whether the EHCP is:
- Legally sound
- Internally consistent
- Clear about what support must be provided
EHCP Check – A Practical Starting Point
Our EHCP Check is designed to help parents understand whether their plan accurately reflects needs and provision, and where the key gaps or weaknesses may be.
It provides a clear, structured review of the EHCP so you can decide — with confidence — what to do next.