EHCP for ADHD: Tips & Tricks by SEN Tutors

Navigating the EHCP for ADHD process can be daunting, but it’s crucial for securing the right support for children with ADHD in school. At SEN Tutors, we specialise in helping families and children with special educational needs get the tailored educational support they require. 

The Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) is a legal document designed to ensure that children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) receive the specific support they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. This guide will provide some useful tips and tricks for parents and caregivers on how to apply for and secure an EHCP for ADHD. We want to help you better understand the process and key considerations.

What is an EHCP for ADHD?

An EHCP for ADHD is a legal framework that outlines the educational, health, and social care support needed by a child or young person with ADHD to succeed in school and other educational settings. It’s designed for those under the age of 25 who require more support than what is provided by standard SEN education services.

Unlike the typical special educational needs statement or SEN statement, an EHCP goes further by including healthcare and social care support, providing a holistic plan for children with complex needs. For children with ADHD, this plan can include behavioural management strategies, one-on-one assistance, and access to specialised learning tools.

Benefits for a Child with EHCP in the UK

The benefits for a child with EHCP UK are significant, especially for those with ADHD. An EHCP provides:

• Personalised support: Tailored learning plans that meet the unique needs of your child.
• Access to additional resources: This may include one-to-one support, special tools, or learning aids such as extra time for exams or movement breaks.
• Health and social care integration: The plan coordinates services such as counselling, therapy, or social skills training to support all aspects of a child’s development.

Can You Get an EHCP for ADHD?

Yes, children with ADHD can qualify for an EHCP, but it depends on the severity of their symptoms and how much their condition affects their ability to learn. It’s not solely the diagnosis that matters but the impact of ADHD on the child’s educational progress. For children whose ADHD significantly hinders their learning, an EHCP for ADHD can make all the difference in providing the necessary support.

Do You Need a Diagnosis for an EHCP?

A common question parents ask is, “do you need a diagnosis for an EHCP?” While a formal diagnosis of ADHD strengthens the case for an EHCP, it’s not always necessary. You can request an EHCP assessment if your child is struggling in school, even without a formal diagnosis, though having one can certainly streamline the process.

Can You Get an EHCP Without a Diagnosis?

Can you get an EHCP without a diagnosis? Yes, it’s possible. The key is to demonstrate that your child has special educational needs that aren’t being met by the school’s standard resources. 

ADHD symptoms like inattentiveness, impulsivity, and hyperactivity can severely impact a child’s ability to focus and succeed in school. This can serve as the basis for requesting an EHCP assessment.

How to Apply for an EHCP for ADHD

Understanding how to get an EHCP for your child is essential. The application process can be broken down into several steps:

Step 1: Requesting an EHCP Assessment

The first step in securing an EHCP for ADHD is to formally request an EHCP assessment from your local authority. SEN Parents, teachers, doctors, or other professionals can submit this request. Schools are often the first to identify potential SEN child needs, but as a parent, you can directly request an assessment if you believe your child’s ADHD significantly impacts their education.

• EHCP application: To start the process, you need to provide documentation outlining your child’s difficulties. This may include medical reports, teacher assessments, and evidence of any behavioural issues at school.

Step 2: Provide Supporting Evidence

Once the request for an assessment is submitted, the local authority will need evidence to determine whether an EHCP is necessary. This evidence will come from the school, healthcare professionals, and other relevant sources.

• EHCP criteria: The local authority will assess your child against the EHCP criteria, which focuses on whether their educational needs can be met within the resources available to mainstream schools. If not, an EHCP is warranted.

Step 3: Drafting the EHCP

If the assessment finds that your child needs additional support, the next step is drafting the EHC plan. The plan will outline your child’s needs, the support they will receive, and the outcomes expected. You will have the opportunity to review this draft and suggest changes.

• EHCP guide for parents: Familiarise yourself with the structure of an EHCP. For example, the plan will cover your child’s educational needs, health requirements, and social care provisions. It’s crucial to ensure that all aspects of your child’s condition, such as hyperactivity or attention difficulties, are addressed.

Check out an EHCP plan example for Autism here.

Step 4: Finalising and Implementing the EHCP

Once the EHCP is finalised, it becomes a legally binding document. The local authority has a duty to ensure that the support outlined in the plan is provided, whether that includes one-on-one assistance in class, sensory integration therapy, or specialised teaching methods.

• What does EHCP stand for?: EHCP stands for Education, Health, and Care Plan, and it is designed to ensure comprehensive support for children with special educational needs disability.

Step 5: Regular Reviews and Updates

An EHCP for ADHD is reviewed annually to ensure it continues to meet your child’s needs. During these reviews, you can request changes if you feel that the support provided is no longer sufficient or if your child’s needs have changed.

ADHD Support in Schools UK

Once an EHCP for ADHD is in place, it’s crucial to understand the broader framework of ADHD support in schools UK. Schools are legally required to provide reasonable adjustments to support children with ADHD and other SEND conditions. These adjustments can include:

• Small class sizes
• One-on-one teaching assistants
• Learning aids like fidget toys or movement breaks
• Behavioural support plans

Special Educational Needs in London Schools

If your child attends a school in London, it’s important to understand the specific services available for special educational needs London. Schools in London, as elsewhere in the UK, must comply with SEND legislation and provide adequate support for children with special educational needs disability.

SEN Tutors’ Services for Children on an EHCP for ADHD

At SEN Tutors, we offer a range of individualised tutoring services to support children with ADHD who have an EHCP. Our experienced tutors work closely with children, parents, and schools to implement the strategies outlined in the EHC plan and ensure that each child receives the focused attention they need to succeed.

Key Services Include:

• Personalised tutoring plans: Tailored learning strategies designed to meet the unique needs of children with ADHD.
• One-on-one support: Targeted support to help with focus, organisation, and behavioural management.
• Collaboration with schools: We work closely with educational staff to ensure that all elements of the EHCP are being met in school.
• Flexible learning environments: Options for in-person or online tutoring sessions to accommodate your child’s needs.

Our services ensure that every child on an EHCP for ADHD has the opportunity to reach their full academic and personal potential.

EHCP Support for Parents

Navigating the EHCP process can be overwhelming for parents, but understanding the EHCP support for parents available can make things easier. Local authorities and schools offer guidance on the application process, and there are also independent services that can help you with applying for an EHCP.

• EHCP assessment: During the assessment phase, it’s crucial to gather all relevant documentation, including teacher reports, medical assessments, and any behavioural observations.
• How to apply for an EHCP as a parent: Parents can apply directly to the local authority, but it’s essential to stay organised. Keep a file of all communications and evidence to ensure you have a strong case for your child’s EHCP.

Tips for Securing an EHCP for ADHD

Here are some practical tips for navigating the EHCP for ADHD process:

1. Stay organised: Keep detailed records of all communications with the school, local authority, and healthcare providers.
2. Communicate regularly with teachers: Ensure your child’s school is aware of your application for an EHCP and that they are providing ongoing support in the meantime.
3. Understand SEND meaning education: Knowing the full scope of SEND regulations 2014 will help you advocate for your child effectively.
4. Consider a private ADHD assessment: If you’re struggling to get an EHCP through your local authority, consider a private assessment. This can provide additional evidence for your case.
5. Follow up on EHCP reviews: Ensure that your child’s EHCP is regularly reviewed and updated to meet their evolving needs.

Specialised Support: Hertfordshire SEN

For families in Hertfordshire, SEN support is available through local resources that align with national SEND regulations. If you’re navigating how to get an EHCP for ADHD in this region, working with Hertfordshire SEN services can provide additional support tailored to local schools and educational authorities.

How to Get an EHCP for Autism and ADHD

If your child has autism in addition to ADHD, you may wonder how to get an EHCP for autism or ADHD. The process is similar, but it’s important to document how both conditions affect your child’s learning and development. A comprehensive EHC plan will cover all aspects of their special educational needs.

Final Thoughts on Securing an EHCP for ADHD

Securing an EHCP for ADHD is an essential step for ensuring that your child receives the support they need to succeed in school. Understanding how to get EHCP, staying organised, and advocating for your child’s unique needs can make the process smoother. 

Whether you’re applying for an EHCP for the first time or managing an existing plan, SEN Tutors is here to provide expert guidance and help your child reach their full potential. If you need more information on applying for an EHCP or navigating the EHCP criteria, don’t hesitate to contact us at SEN Tutors.