SEN Support vs an EHCP: What’s the Difference?
Overview
In England, nearly 1 in 5 children have special educational needs, with most receiving SEN Support. Meanwhile around 1 in 20 have An Education, Health and Care Plan, known as an EHCP.
If your child has additional needs, you may have heard about SEN Support and EHCPs. Both aim to help individuals with special needs get the right support.
Understanding the difference can help you decide what level of support you or your child may need.
What is SEN Support?
SEN Support is the standard level of support provided by mainstream schools and colleges to help pupils with additional needs. This support is provided by educational institutions, using their resources and delegated budget.
This is the first level of support for children with additional needs.
It may include:
- Extra help from a teacher or teaching assistant
- Adjustments to lessons
- Behaviour or emotional support
SEN Support is also flexible and reviewed regularly.
What is an EHCP?
An EHCP is a formal, legal plan for children with more complex or long-term needs. It is typically assigned when a school is unable to provide the necessary care through standard SEN support.
It provides:
- Detailed support plans
- Input from health and care services
- Specific funding for support
Key Differences
SEN Support
EHCP
Provided by school
Issued by local authority
No legal document
Legal document
Uses school resources
Includes additional funding
Less formal
More detailed and structured
For mild to moderate needs
For complex or long-term needs
How Do You Know Which Your Child Needs?
Your child may need an EHCP if:
- SEN Support isn’t enough
- They are not making progress
- Their needs are more complex
Your child may stay on SEN Support if:
- Their needs can be met within school
- They are making progress with current help
Reassurance for Parents
Starting with SEN Support is completely normal. Not every child needs an EHCP
However, you can request an EHCP assessment if you or your child feels more support is needed
Remember to trust your instincts - if you feel your child needs more help, it’s okay to ask.
Both SEN Support and EHCPs exist to help people with additional needs thrive. The goal isn’t to label, it’s to make sure your child gets the understanding and support they deserve.
References
- https://www.sendtutoring.co.uk/resources/blog/post/what-is-the-difference-between-send-support-and-an-ehcp/
- https://www.gov.uk/children-with-special-educational-needs/extra-SEN-help
- https://www.leicspart.nhs.uk/autism-space/education/education-health-and-care-assessment-and-plans/
- https://explore-education-statistics.service.gov.uk/find-statistics/special-educational-needs-in-england/2024-25
Need more help? Contact the us at Referrals@halowproject.org.uk
