Use this letter when your child’s needs have changed, the support isn’t working, or there is a problem that can’t wait until the next annual review.
In short
- Reviews must happen at least every 12 months, but the council can hold one sooner.
- Explain what has changed, with evidence, and why it can’t wait.
- Send it to the council’s SEN team and copy in the school’s SENCO.
Before you send it
- Write down what has changed and when. For example, new reports, a diagnosis, exclusions or school refusal.
- Gather the evidence: new reports, attendance records, emails from school.
- Think about what you want to change in the plan.
The letter
Subject: Request for an early review of the EHC plan for [child’s full name], date of birth [date of birth]
Dear [name, or SEN team],
I am writing to ask for an early review of the EHC plan for my child, [child’s full name], date of birth [date of birth], who attends [school]. The last review was on [date].
[Child’s name]’s needs and circumstances have changed since the plan was last reviewed:
- [What has changed, with dates]
- [What has changed, with dates]
As a result, the plan no longer [describes their needs accurately / provides the support they need]. [One or two sentences on the effect on your child.]
I have attached [list of evidence].
Please arrange an early review meeting as soon as possible, and let me know the date. I have copied in [name of SENCO] at [school].
Yours sincerely,
[Your full name]
[Your phone number and email]
Needs have changed a lot? You can also ask the council to carry out a reassessment of your child’s needs, under section 44 of the Children and Families Act 2014. If it refuses, you can appeal.
What happens next
After the review meeting, the council has 4 weeks to tell you whether it will change the plan. Read EHCP annual reviews for every deadline after the meeting.
This is a template, not legal advice. For advice about your situation, contact IPSEA or your local SENDIASS.