Navigating the world of Special Educational Needs (SEN) can feel overwhelming at the best of times, but now, many parents and educators are feeling extra pressure with proposed changes to Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) here in the UK. These changes could impact the support children receive, raising concerns about their educational and emotional wellbeing. In this blog, we’ll explore how to support children with SEN during EHCP policy changes in the UK. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, we hope this guide offers some comfort, clarity, and practical help.
What’s Changing with EHCPs
EHCPs are legal documents that outline the support a child with special needs is entitled to in education. But recent discussions in Parliament and the media suggest a shift in how EHCPs may be issued, managed, and funded.
Some proposed changes include:
- Centralised national templates for EHCPs.
- Standardised bands of funding rather than tailor-made packages.
- A reduced legal guarantee of specific school placements or support services.
For many families, this raises fears of less individualised care, especially for children who need specific therapies, teaching methods, or environments.
Why This Matters
These changes could lead to longer wait times, reduced services, and more “one-size-fits-all” solutions. That’s why knowing how to support children with SEN during EHCP policy changes in the UK is a given, both emotionally and practically.
Children with SEN often rely on stable, predictable routines and consistent support. Uncertainty can be especially hard for them to process. As adults, we can help by providing reassurance, structure, and by advocating effectively on their behalf.
How to Support Children with SEN
1. Start with Reassurance and Routine
Children with SEN thrive on routine. When things around them start to shift, like hearing about policy changes or losing a teaching assistant, it can trigger anxiety or behavioural changes. So what can we do to help them feel safe and supported?
- Check in with their feelings regularly using tools like emotion wheels or simple sentence starters like “I feel ___ because ___.”
- Keep daily routines as consistent as possible. Predictability helps reduce stress and gives children a sense of control.
- Use visuals, such as calendars, social stories, or storyboards, to explain any upcoming changes in a simple, reassuring way.
Even small, predictable moments like bedtime routines, morning checklists, or a weekly treat can give a child a sense of control.
2. Strengthen Communication with School
If you’re a parent or carer, now’s a great time to check in with your child’s school SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator).
You could ask:
- Are there any anticipated changes in support due to EHCP funding or policy shifts?
- What are the school’s plans to adapt?
- How can you stay informed about local authority decisions?
And if you’re a teacher, open and compassionate communication with parents can make a big difference… not just for the child, but for you too. These changes affect everyone, and simply reassuring families that you’re doing your best to support their child can go a long way. Your role is valued, and your efforts are deeply appreciated.
3. Document Everything
One key part of knowing how to support children with SEN during EHCP policy changes in the UK is having clear, up-to-date records.
This can include:
- Copies of current EHCPs and any reports from educational psychologists or therapists.
- Notes from school meetings or parent-teacher conversations.
- Letters or emails sent to or from your local authority.
If changes are proposed, having a strong paper trail can support your case for ongoing or increased support.
4. Empower Children to Express Themselves
Depending on age and ability, children should feel empowered to talk about their needs and feelings. Simple ways to help them include:
- Creating a “feelings journal” or drawing emotions with crayons or apps.
- Teaching self-advocacy phrases like “I need a quiet space” or “I don’t understand, can you help me another way?”
- Practicing calm-down techniques like breathing exercises, sensory breaks, or movement games.
When children feel heard, they’re more likely to feel safe, even when other things are changing.
5. Know Your Rights and Get Support
Charities like IPSEA (Independent Provider of Special Education Advice) and SENDIASS (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Information Advice and Support Services) offer free legal advice and advocacy.
Don’t be afraid to:
- Appeal EHCP decisions if you disagree.
- Ask for re-assessments if needs have changed.
- Join parent support groups on Facebook or in your area to stay updated and connected.
Remember: you are not alone in this. Many other families are walking this path too.
In Summary
Understanding how to support children with SEN during EHCP policy changes in the UK is more important than ever. These shifts may feel daunting, but with the right knowledge, communication, and compassion, we can help children feel secure, seen, and supported.
Whether you’re preparing for a meeting with your local authority or simply trying to maintain stability at home, every small step you take makes a big difference.
Let’s stand together — for the children who need us, and for the future we want to build with them.