How do I apply for an EHCP?

Parents/carers or young people aged 16 and above can contact Stoke-on-Trent City Council to apply for an education, health and care needs assessment.

Applications will need to include the following information:

  1. Explanation of needs (support in place of learning, how can this best be given, what has worked well, what would be useful, what is good and any concerns)
  2. Extra support that has been received
  3. List any education, health or social care agencies that show support
  4. Include any professional reports
  5. Include consent by completing a parental consent form.

Who should I send an EHC needs assessment to?

EHC needs assessment requests are handled by SENMAS (special educational needs monitoring and assessments service). Please send all the information needed to them.

SENMAS

Stoke-on-Trent City Council

Hazel Trees

Duke Street 

Fenton

Stoke-on-Trent

ST4 3NR

email SENMAS@stoke.gov.uk

Duty Number: 01782 231863 - Monday - Friday 9:30-15:30

Reviewing the evidence

We will then review the evidence received within six weeks. We will:

  • Consider the information sent to us.
  • Request information and advice from the school/setting about graduated approach to SEN support that has been used (if needed).
  • Look at the other support that has been received from health services, social care services and any other professionals.

You can contact SENMAS by email or over the phone:

Telephone: 01782 231863

Email: SENMAS@stoke.gov.uk

Decision making

If it is our opinion that:

  • The child or young person may have special educational needs that cannot be met with SEND support in a mainstream school
  • The child or young person may need additional specialist help to meet their needs.

We will then agree to carry out an EHC needs assessment.

We will let you know our decision within 6 weeks of receiving your request.

You can see our timeline here.