The EHCP working document explained
A working document is a version of the EHCP used to show agreed and disputed amendments during a contents appeal. It helps the parties and tribunal identify what remains to decide. It is not itself a final amended EHCP or a substitute for complying with tribunal directions.
Practical guidance for families in England
Use the correct starting version
Start from the plan and format identified in the tribunal’s directions. Keep the original unchanged and save a clearly labelled working copy. Record the date and version. Do not combine edits from different documents without checking that each change has been carried across accurately.
Guidance checked on 15 September 2026. Keep the decision letter, relevant plan or request, and the dates that apply to your case.
Follow the marking convention
The tribunal or case directions may specify how proposed, agreed and disputed wording is shown. Use that convention consistently rather than assuming one universal colour or font rule. Include a key where directed and ensure an accessible version is available to anyone who needs it.
Link each change to evidence
For a disputed need or provision, identify the proposed wording, the reason and the report or observation supporting it. Keep comments concise and distinguish suggested text from argument. Check that an agreed change to B is reflected in F where necessary and that placement issues in I remain clear.
Maintain a change record
Keep a short list of version date, sender, changes proposed, changes agreed and unresolved issues. Obtain clear confirmation before treating wording as agreed. Preserve earlier versions so that an accidental deletion or disputed agreement can be traced. Use a single clearly identified current version for the next exchange.
Prepare the version needed for the hearing
Follow the directed deadline and submission arrangements. Summarise the remaining disputes separately so the tribunal can locate them quickly. After the decision, compare the authority’s final amended plan with the order and agreed wording; the working document alone does not complete implementation.
Check the documents for this stage
Keep the relevant request, decision notice or plan together with the evidence referred to above. Record the source of each proposed change and the date on which the next action is due. If two accounts differ, explain the difference and seek clarification rather than omitting one account.
Avoid common drafting problems
Do not delete an unresolved issue merely because a meeting discussed it. Do not insert unsupported provision amounts or copy another child’s plan. Avoid inconsistent terminology across B, F and I. Check that tracked changes, comments and colour coding remain readable when exported or printed.
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Before you take the next step
You should be able to identify the issue, the outcome or information you need, the evidence supporting it and the person responsible for the next action. Keep a copy of what you send and any acknowledgement. The related guides below cover the stages that may follow.
Free information and additional support
Choose help for the question you need answered
Your local SENDIASS offers free information, advice and support. IPSEA also publishes SEND guidance. If a deadline, evidence gap or disputed decision remains unclear, identify the specific question before commissioning paid help. Seek prompt specialist legal advice where an urgent legal remedy may be needed.
How Little Nellie’s can help
Little Nellie’s offers EHCP advocacy, document review, evidence organisation and independent social-work input. Agree the task, deliverable, deadline and fee before instructing. The related service and pricing pages explain the available support.
Little Nellie’s is not a law firm. Its services do not replace the local authority’s statutory duties or guarantee a plan, placement or tribunal outcome. Legal work outside the agreed service scope may require a specialist solicitor.
Related guides and support
Choose the guide for your next question or stage.
Official sources and EHCP services
Official sources: Children and Families Act 2014 — https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2014/6/contents
SEND Code of Practice — https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/send-code-of-practice-0-to-25
SEND appeal guidance — https://www.gov.uk/appeal-ehc-plan-decision
Free SEND guidance — https://www.ipsea.org.uk/
The service links below describe Nellie’s paid support. Check current official instructions when filing an appeal.
Discuss the support you need
Send the relevant decision, plan or request and any deadline when enquiring. Ask which service addresses your specific issue and request a clear scope and quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does agreement in a working document end the appeal?
Not automatically. Follow the tribunal’s process for notifying agreements and resolving or withdrawing issues.
Is there one mandatory colour code for every case?
Follow the directions and current guidance for your case. Do not rely on an online example if it conflicts with the tribunal’s instructions.
Can I use a working document before an appeal?
An amendment schedule can help at draft stage, but the tribunal working-document process and its directions apply to the registered case.
Where can I find free SEND information?
Your local SENDIASS provides free information, advice and support. IPSEA publishes guidance on the SEND system. Use the direct links in the sources section and check any service’s current availability.
What should I send when asking Little Nellie’s for help?
Send the relevant request, decision letter or plan, the key evidence and any deadline. Explain the specific task you need help with so the scope and fee can be agreed.
Does this guide apply outside England?
This guide concerns the EHCP framework in England. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have different education and support systems; check guidance for the relevant jurisdiction.