If you’re a parent trying to secure an EHCP for your child, you’ve probably already heard this word thrown around: “battle.” And if you're in the thick of it, you know it's not an exaggeration.

Many amilies find themselves exhausted, frustrated, and even heartbroken trying to get the support their child needs and is legally entitled to. But why does it feel so hard? Why does something that should be straightforward turn into such a fight?

One of the biggest reasons is that Local Authorities are often under extreme financial pressure. Demand for EHCPs has risen sharply in recent years, but the funding hasn’t kept up. As a result, some LAs intentionally make the process deliberately difficult, hoping only the most persistent parents will continue to push. It’s not right but it’s happening all over the country.

Even though you’re not a legal professional, medical expert, or educational psychologist, the system often expects you to behave like one. You’re expected to gather evidence, chase reports, attend meetings, and spot errors in complex documents. Most parents aren’t told this up front they find out the hard way, often when their child is denied support. EHCP 4 Kids can help you with this with one of our many services that we offer.

LAs are supposed to follow a legal timeline 20 weeks from request to final EHCP. But it’s not uncommon for delays to stretch for months beyond that. Emails go unanswered. Deadlines pass with no explanation. Reports are vague or missing altogether. And yet, it's you the parent who’s expected to stay on top of it all.

You know your child needs help. Teachers may agree. Specialists might confirm it. But somehow, you still have to prove it repeatedly often to people who have never met your child. Many parents feel like they’re being told their child’s needs  isn’t “severe enough” to qualify. This is not right.

If your LA refuses to issue an EHCP or provides a plan that’s inadequate, your only real option is to go to mediation or appeal. But going to the tribunal takes time, money, and strength, things you might already be running low on. If you feel like you need some support through the EHCP process book a 20 minute all with EHCP 4 Kids today.