SEN Support vs EHCP: What’s the Difference and Does Your Child Need One?
SEN Support vs EHCP: What’s the Difference and Does Your Child Need One?
If you’ve just started navigating the world of special educational needs, you’ve probably come across two key terms: SEN Support and EHCP. They sound similar — and they both aim to help children with additional needs — but they’re very different in how they work, what they offer, and how much legal protection they provide.
This guide breaks it all down clearly, without the jargon.
What is SEN Support?
SEN Support is the term used to describe the help that schools provide for children who have additional needs but do not (yet) have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
It can include:
Targeted classroom strategies
Adapted learning materials
Small group interventions
Extra adult support, such as a teaching assistant
Behavioural, social, or emotional support
This support should follow a process known as Assess, Plan, Do, Review — where your child’s needs are identified, support is planned, implemented, and reviewed to see how effective it is.
Every school has a duty to identify and support children with special educational needs, but the amount of support available can vary depending on the school’s resources and funding.
What is an EHCP?
An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is a legally binding document issued by the local authority. It outlines a child’s educational, health, and social care needs, along with the specific support that must be provided to meet those needs.
You can apply for an EHCP if:
Your child has complex or long-term needs
The support currently in place isn’t helping them make progress
They may require specialist provision or more support than the school can provide from its usual resources
Once issued, the EHCP must be reviewed every year, and the local authority is legally responsible for making sure the support written into the plan is delivered.
Key Differences: SEN Support vs EHCP
| Feature | SEN Support | EHCP |
|---|---|---|
| Who provides it | School | Local Authority |
| Legally binding | No | Yes |
| Includes health & social care | Rarely | Yes, if needed |
| Additional funding | No, from school’s budget | Yes, from the local authority |
| Annual review required | No | Yes |
| Suitable for | Mild to moderate needs | Complex or significant needs |
How Do You Know Which One Is Right for Your Child?
Every child is different, but here are some useful indicators:
SEN Support may be suitable if:
Your child is making progress with the help already in place
The school is responsive and adapting strategies when needed
You feel their current setting is meeting their needs
You may want to apply for an EHCP if:
Your child is not progressing despite ongoing support
Their needs are complex, long-term, or affecting multiple areas of life
You're being told the school can’t provide the help your child needs
You're considering specialist schools or additional therapies
Can You Apply for an EHCP Without the School?
Yes. You don’t need the school’s permission or agreement to apply. As a parent or carer, you have the legal right to request an EHC needs assessment directly from your local authority.
If you're unsure where to start, we can help. Book a one-to-one consultation with our team here.
Final Thoughts
SEN Support and EHCPs both aim to meet a child’s individual needs — but only the EHCP comes with legal protections and guaranteed provision. If your child is struggling and SEN Support isn’t enough, it may be time to consider applying for an EHCP.
You don’t have to go through the process alone.
At Advocates for Inclusion, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Email us at info@advocatesforinclusion.co.uk or contact us here.
