EHCP Application
& Appeal Support

Receiving a draft EHCP can be both a relief and a frustration — it’s progress, but often not quite what your child needs. You have just 15 calendar days to respond, and in that time, it’s vital to ensure the plan is accurate, lawful, and truly reflects your child’s strengths and support needs. At Nellie Supports, we provide expert-led EHCP Draft Reviews designed to give you clarity, confidence, and the strongest possible written response — all within that critical window. Here’s how we support you during the draft EHCP stage: Detailed, Line-by-Line Review: We analyse every section of the draft EHCP (Sections A–K), checking for missing or vague language, unlawful phrasing, lack of specificity, and absence of required social care or health input. Professional Commentary and Response Letter: You’ll receive a written response that highlights any weaknesses or omissions in the draft and suggests concrete amendments, fully aligned with SEND Code of Practice and case law where relevant. This can be sent directly to the local authority. Child-Centred Perspective: As registered social workers, we bring a nuanced, family-focused understanding to every review. We advocate for your child’s rights and entitlements in a way that is both legally grounded and emotionally intelligent. Fast Turnaround and Direct Communication: Time is short, our EHCP Draft Review service is delivered within 5 working days, and we’re available throughout to answer questions, clarify terms, and explain next steps. This stage can significantly shape the final EHCP. Whether you intend to challenge the plan or hope for quick resolution, our review gives you the tools to make your voice heard, effectively, respectfully, and with the backing of real expertise

Applying for an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re unsure what to include, how to evidence your child’s needs, or where to even begin. At Nellie Supports, we take the guesswork out of the process and provide clear, expert-led support from the very start. Our EHCP application service is designed to be both comprehensive and compassionate. Here’s how we help: Initial Consultation: We start with a friendly phone or video assessment to get to know your child and understand their strengths, challenges, and support needs. Evidence Gathering: We collect key information, including health, education, and social care details, to create a full picture of your child’s daily experiences and barriers to learning. Professionally Written Request: Our expert team drafts the EHCP application for you — written in the language that local authorities understand and expect, ensuring all statutory requirements are met. Focus on Social Care: As qualified social workers, we pay special attention to your child’s social care needs, making sure these are properly represented alongside educational and health concerns. Submission Support: Once the application is ready, we can guide you on how to submit it to your local authority — or submit it on your behalf if required. By ensuring your EHCP application is accurate, detailed and grounded in professional evidence, we give it the best possible chance of being accepted the first time around. No templates, no jargon — just personalised support that puts your child at the heart of the process. Let us help you take the first confident step toward securing the right support for your child.

When a local authority refuses an EHCP assessment, issues an inadequate plan, or fails to make the changes your child needs, it can be incredibly frustrating and disheartening. Mediation offers a vital opportunity to resolve disagreements without the need to go straight to appeal — and at Nellie Supports, we ensure you're fully prepared and professionally supported throughout. Our mediation support service is designed to give you the strongest voice at the table. Here’s how we help: EHCP Desktop or Full Assessment: We begin by reviewing your child’s current EHCP or the reasons for refusal. Our social workers carry out either a desktop assessment or a full in-person EHCP social care assessment to understand your child’s needs in depth. Gap Analysis: We produce a comparative review, clearly identifying where the current EHCP (or refusal) falls short — whether that's vague wording, missed needs, or inadequate provision. Mediation Preparation: You’ll receive a clear, evidence-backed summary that can be used in mediation. This helps ensure your concerns are presented in a structured, professional way that highlights the key legal and practical gaps. Expert Attendance (if needed): You don’t have to go it alone. We can attend mediation with you — either virtually or in person — offering professional advocacy, reassurance, and guidance throughout the meeting. With Nellie Supports by your side, mediation becomes a powerful tool — not just a bureaucratic step. We help you navigate the conversation with confidence and clarity, giving you the best possible chance of securing the changes your child needs without having to escalate to tribunal.

Sometimes, despite mediation efforts, you may find that your child’s needs are still not being met. Whether the local authority has issued a final EHCP that doesn’t reflect your child’s needs, or you’re choosing to bypass mediation altogether, an appeal or tribunal may be the necessary next step. At Nellie Supports, we’re here to make that process clearer, less stressful, and more effective — standing by your side every step of the way. Here’s how we support you through the EHCP appeal and tribunal process: SEND35 Form Preparation: We’ll complete the SEND35 tribunal appeal form on your behalf, ensuring it is accurate, clear, and backed with solid evidence. This crucial document outlines the areas you wish to appeal, such as Sections B (needs), F (provision), or I (placement). Comprehensive EHCP Assessment: If not already completed during mediation, we can carry out a full EHCP assessment — including: A detailed child profile A social care needs assessment A personalised care plan A care needs court report (if required) Comparative EHCP Review: We compare your current EHCP with our assessment to identify gaps, misrepresentations, or missed legal obligations. If a review was already done during mediation, we’ll update it with any new or relevant findings. Ongoing Appeal Support: From advice and guidance to full representation at the tribunal, we ensure your case is clearly presented and professionally structured. Whether through written submission or in-person attendance, we’re here to help you feel prepared and empowered. Appealing an EHCP decision can be daunting — but you don’t have to face it alone. With Nellie Supports, you have a team of expert social workers and SEND professionals dedicated to helping you secure the outcome your child deserves.

If your appeal progresses to a tribunal, it’s natural to feel anxious about what lies ahead. Tribunals can be complex, emotionally intense, and full of legal language — but with Nellie Supports, you’ll never face it alone. We offer comprehensive, expert-led support to help you present a well-evidenced, structured, and persuasive case at tribunal. Our goal is to make the process as manageable — and successful — as possible. Here’s how we support you at the tribunal stage: Tribunal-Ready Documentation: We ensure all documentation submitted to the tribunal is complete, accurate, and aligned with the statutory guidance. This includes your SEND35 form, supporting reports, and any updated assessments. Professional Advocacy: A member of our team can represent you at the tribunal, either in person or remotely, offering clear and confident advocacy on your behalf. We know how to speak the language of local authorities and tribunals — and we do so with your child’s best interests at the heart of every word. Updated Assessments & Reports: If any new information has come to light or circumstances have changed since mediation or appeal, we’ll revise our EHCP assessment and comparative review accordingly to reflect the most current and compelling case. Emotional Support & Guidance: Beyond the paperwork, we’re here for you. We take the time to explain each step of the process and what to expect, offering reassurance, calm, and clarity when it’s needed most. With Nellie Supports beside you, you’re not just better prepared — you’re empowered. Our combination of social care expertise, legal awareness, and compassionate support gives you the best possible foundation for achieving the right outcome at tribunal.