Are EHCPs Being Scrapped? What Parents Need to Know About the SEND Reforms

If you've seen the recent SEND headlines, you may be wondering: Is my child's EHCP going to disappear?

It's an understandable concern.

The Government has proposed major changes to the SEND system in England, including a new system of Individual Support Plans and changes to the way EHCPs operate.

But saying that "EHCPs are being scrapped" doesn't accurately describe the proposals.

So, are EHCPs being scrapped?

No — not based on the current proposals.

The Government has said EHCPs would remain for children and young people with more complex needs who require support beyond what is routinely available in mainstream settings.

The proposed reforms would change how support is organised across the SEND system, rather than simply removing EHCPs altogether.

What could change?

One of the proposed changes is the introduction of Individual Support Plans.

These would be created for children with SEND and would record their needs and the practical, day-to-day support they receive. Parents and teachers would have access to the plan.

For children with more complex needs, the proposals include Specialist Provision Packages alongside EHCPs.

The Government says these packages would underpin EHCPs and provide a legal entitlement to the support specified within the package.

Why are people talking about EHCPs changing?

The Government's reform programme is based partly on concerns about the current SEND system, including inconsistent access to support, pressure on specialist provision and differences between local areas.

The proposed reforms aim to create earlier support, improve inclusion in mainstream education and increase access to specialist expertise.

The Government has also announced significant proposed investment, including funding for new special school places, Inclusion Bases and an Inclusive Mainstream Fund.

Does this mean parents should stop applying for EHCPs?

No.

If your child needs an EHC needs assessment under the current system, the proposed reforms do not mean you should simply wait.

The current EHCP system continues to operate.

If you believe your child's needs require an assessment, you can continue to explore the current process and seek appropriate advice.

What if my child already has an EHCP?

For now, continue to use your child's EHCP as you normally would.

That means:

Check the plan.

Is it accurate?

Check the provision.

Is the support written in the plan actually being delivered?

Check the outcomes.

Are they still appropriate for your child?

Use the Annual Review.

Make sure changes in your child's needs are discussed and recorded.

Don't let the headlines stop you advocating

SEND reform is likely to be a long process.

The Government's proposed timetable indicates that new assessments under a future system would begin from September 2029, with changes to EHCP support not expected before September 2030.

There is therefore an important distinction between:

What is being proposed

and

What is legally in place today.

Parents need to know the difference.

SEND Sights takeaway

If you've heard that "EHCPs are being scrapped", don't panic.

EHCPs remain part of the proposed future SEND system for children with more complex needs. The details of the reforms are still being developed.

Until changes are formally introduced, continue to use the current system and advocate for the support your child needs.

This article is based on Government proposals available at the time of publication. Proposed reforms may change following consultation and further policy development.