Professional evidence
- Educational psychologist (EP) report: Especially valuable — EPs can describe learning needs in detail and specify the type and level of provision needed.
- Speech and language therapy (SALT) report: Essential if your child has communication, language, or eating and drinking needs.
- Occupational therapy (OT) report: Important for motor, sensory processing, and daily living needs.
- Medical or paediatric reports: Relevant for any health conditions that affect learning or participation.
- CAMHS or mental health reports: For children with emotional, social, or mental health difficulties.
School evidence
- SEN support plans, Individual Education Plans (IEPs), or My Plans
- Progress and attainment data — showing gaps compared to peers
- Attendance records (especially for anxiety or school refusal)
- Incident, pastoral, or behaviour records
- Teacher observations and reports
- Records of provision tried and funding spent
Parent and child evidence
- Parent statement — your views, observations, and concerns
- Your child's views and wishes (especially for older children)
- Diary records of difficulties at home or with transitions
- Correspondence with school or the local authority
- Records of meetings, including who attended and what was agreed
What we prepare for you
- The letter or grounds you send, written from the reports you provide
- Council-response matching and SEND law in that document
- Named reports referred to by author, date and what they show
- An assigned case professional who prepares and checks it
- How to send, one revision, and 14 days of email support
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a private assessment to get an EHCP?
- No. You can apply using school-based evidence and your own parent statement. However, if the school's evidence is limited or the local authority is likely to dispute need, an independent professional assessment (e.g. from an educational psychologist) can significantly strengthen your case.
- How recent does evidence need to be?
- There is no strict legal rule, but more recent evidence carries more weight. The local authority will consider whether evidence reflects your child's current needs. Evidence more than 2–3 years old may be considered outdated, especially if needs have changed.
- What if the school won't provide evidence?
- You can request copies of your child's SEN support records, Individual Education Plans (IEPs), progress data, and relevant reports — schools must provide these to parents on request. If evidence is withheld, mention this in your application.
- Can I include my own notes and observations?
- Yes, and you should. A detailed parent statement describing what you observe at home, the impact on daily life, and your child's own views is important evidence that professionals cannot provide. Include specific examples and dates.