Requesting re-assessment of needs
What is a re-assessment?
A re-assessment is when the local authority (LA) looks again at your child or young person’s education, health and care needs. It helps decide whether the current Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) still meets their needs or needs updating.
You can ask for a re-assessment if:
- your child or young person’s needs have changed.
- you think they need different or more support.
- you believe they should attend a different type of school or college.
You will need to write to the LA and explain why you think the current EHCP no longer meets your child or young person’s needs.
Here is an example email or letter you can adapt:
Subject: Request for a re-assessment of needs
Dear [Sir/Madam or Named Officer],
I am writing to formally request a re-assessment of my child’s / young person’s education, health and care needs
[Child/Young Person’s Name] currently has an Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plan issued on [date of current plan], but I believe their needs have changed significantly since the last assessment. [I am concerned that the current provision may no longer be appropriate or sufficient to meet their needs].
I understand that under Section 44 of the Children and Families Act 2014, a parent/carer or young person has the right to request a re-assessment, and that the local authority must respond within 15 calendar days.
The reasons for this request include:
- [Briefly describe any changes in needs, diagnoses, or circumstances]
- [Mention any recent professional reports or concerns]
- [Explain any issues with progress, wellbeing, or provision]
I would be grateful if you could confirm receipt of this request and advise on the next steps. I am happy to provide further information or documentation if needed.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
What will the local authority do?
- The LA must reply within 15 calendar days.
- They do not have to agree to re-assess if:
- an assessment was done in the last six months, or
- they believe a re-assessment is not needed.
If you already have clear evidence of changes, it might be better to ask for the EHCP to be amended during an annual review instead.
Getting support from school or college
You can speak to:
- the SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator)
- your child’s teacher or tutor.
They may be able to provide evidence to support your request. If the school or college agrees, they can:
- write a letter to support your request, or
- make the request for a re-assessment themselves.
If the LA agrees to re-assess
- They must carry out a full EHC needs assessment, including updated advice from professionals.
- If they decide to amend the EHCP:
- you will receive a draft EHCP
- you have at least 15 days to suggest changes and request your preferred school or college
- the final EHCP must be issued within 14 weeks of the date the LA agreed to re-assess.
- If they decide not to amend the EHCP:
- they must still send you the final EHCP within 14 weeks
- they must also tell you about your right to mediation and appeal.
If the LA refuses to re-assess
You have the right to appeal to the SEND Tribunal.
- The LA must send you a letter explaining your right to mediation and appeal.
- You have 2 months from the date of the decision letter, or 1 month from the date of the mediation certificate — whichever is later.
A refusal to re-assess is treated in law as a refusal to assess. You can find more information about what this means and how to appeal here.
