Supporting Parents Through EHCP Reviews: A Comprehensive Guide

As a parent, navigating the realm of educational support for your child can be both rewarding , overwhelming and challenging. One vital aspect of this journey is the Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) review process— an annual check-in ensuring your child's needs are being met. In this guide, I hope to guide parents to effectively support their children through EHCP annual reviews, providing insights and valuable tips every step of the way.

Understanding EHCP Reviews

The EHCP that is proposed should be sent to you 2 weeks before the review.

Before delving into the strategies to support your child through EHCP reviews, it's crucial to grasp the essence of these annual reviews. EHCP reviews are pivotal in assessing your child's progress, ensuring that the provision outlined in their plan is still suitable, and identifying any necessary adjustments. These reviews serve as a collaborative effort between parents, educators, and other professionals ( SALT, OT, Specialist advisory teachers or paediatric specialists, mental health team ) involved in your child's development.

How To Prepare for EHCP Reviews

1. Review the Current Plan: Take time to thoroughly review the existing EHCP plan.

Note down any concerns, achievements, or changes in your child's needs over the past year.

2. Document Progress : Gather evidence of your child's progress, achievements, and challenges since the last review. This could include school reports, therapist feedback, or personal observations.

3. Set Goals : Collaborate with your child or young person if possible. Working with the (SENCO) to set realistic and specific goals for the upcoming year. Having clear objectives can guide the review process and ensure everyone is working towards the same outcomes.

Strategies During the Review Meeting

1. Be Proactive : Actively participate in the review meeting by voicing your concerns, sharing insights about your child's progress, and actively contributing to the goal-setting process. Making notes to prepare in advance is a good idea, it is overwhelming in the meeting so take your time to prepare for the day.

2. Seek Clarifications : Don't hesitate to seek clarifications on any aspects of the plan or recommendations made during the review. Understanding the details is key to effective collaboration.

3. Advocate for Your Child : If you feel that certain provisions or support are not adequate, advocate for your child's needs. Your input as a parent is invaluable in ensuring that your child receives the best possible support.

Post-Review Actions

1. Implement Recommendations : Upon completion of the review, work with the support team to implement any recommendations or adjustments suggested during the meeting. Consistency in support is key to your child's progress.

2. Monitor Progress: Regularly monitor your child's progress towards the set goals and stay in touch with the support team to address any emerging needs or challenges promptly. Always check in with the class teacher, regular updates can help you to feel confident that support is being delivered. Progress is often not recognised when you are with your child every day, feed back from school can help you to understand the milestones and progress they are making.

Conclusion

Supporting parents through EHCP reviews is not just about attending meetings; it's about actively engaging in your child's educational journey, advocating for their needs, and ensuring they receive the support they require to thrive. By following the strategies outlined in this guide, parents can take steps to understand and navigate EHCP reviews more confidently, empowering their children to achieve their full potential. My role as an Advocate is to help parents understand the why, how and what-ifs. I support the parent by helping to navigate the SEND Annual reviews so a parent doesn't feel alone, guided by my expertise and ask the relevant questions when in the LA meetings that will get the correct provisions, outreach support that may be needed, funding to support the school in being able to deliver the correct level of support. I empower you as a parent to be confident in navigating the process and feel listened to and heard so together the review equals a SMART EHCP.

Empower yourself with knowledge, collaborate with the support team, and be your child's strongest advocate throughout the EHCP review process. Your involvement makes a significant difference in shaping your child's educational experience.

Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Together, I can ensure that every child receives the support they need to succeed.

Let's make every EHCP review a step towards a brighter future for our children!