UK SEND Law & Regulations

The primary legislation governing SEND in England. Part 3 establishes the framework for EHC needs assessments, plans, and the duties of local authorities, schools, and health bodies.

Statutory guidance for organisations that work with and support children and young people with SEND. Covers age 0-25.

Prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. Requires schools to make reasonable adjustments and provide auxiliary aids.

The detailed regulations that support the Children and Families Act 2014, including assessment timelines, plan content requirements, and review procedures.

Relevant for young people aged 16+ with SEND who may lack capacity to make decisions about their education and care.

Establishes the framework for adult social care. Relevant for young people with SEND transitioning to adult services at age 18-25.

Section 2 requires local authorities to provide services for disabled children and adults. Referenced in EHCP Section H1.

Governs the processing of personal data including special category data (health, SEN information). Trisende is fully compliant with a maintained DPIA.

What law governs EHCPs in the UK?

Education Health and Care Plans are governed by the Children and Families Act 2014 (Part 3) and the SEND Code of Practice 2015. Local authorities have a legal duty to assess and provide for children with special educational needs under this framework.

What are a parent's rights under SEND law?

Parents have the right to: request an EHC needs assessment, be involved in the assessment process, express a preference for school placement, appeal to the SEND Tribunal if they disagree with a decision, and request mediation before tribunal.

What is the statutory timeline for an EHCP?

Local authorities must complete the entire EHC needs assessment and issue a plan within 20 weeks. This includes 6 weeks to decide whether to assess, 10 weeks for assessment, and 4 weeks to issue the draft plan.

What are the 2026 SEND reforms?

The UK government is reforming the SEND system, transitioning EHCPs to Individual Support Plans (ISPs). The reforms aim to improve consistency, reduce bureaucracy, and ensure children receive the right support earlier. Trisende helps prepare for this transition now.

Can I appeal an EHCP decision?

Yes. You can appeal to the First-tier Tribunal (Special Educational Needs and Disability) if the local authority refuses to assess, refuses to issue an EHCP, or you disagree with the content of the plan. You must consider mediation first (except for placement disputes).

What duties do schools have under SEND law?

Schools must: identify children with SEND, provide SEN Support as a first step, appoint a SENCO, involve parents in decisions, make reasonable adjustments (Equality Act 2010), and deliver provisions specified in an EHCP/ISP.