SEND and the EHCP
Before you use a NOJ guide
A short checklist for using NOJ's public guides safely and checking their scope, sources and limits.
1 min read · updated 16 Jul 2026
SEND and the EHCP
Special educational needs and the Education, Health and Care Plan: the local authority's absolute duty to secure the provision in Section F, annual reviews, and the SEND Tribunal route when it goes wrong.
Who's responsible
- Who holds the duty
- Local authority
- Who enforces it
- SEND Tribunal, High Court (judicial review), Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman
- Primary law
- Children and Families Act 2014, s.42 (Section F provision)
SEND and the EHCP
EHCPs explained
An EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) is a legal document setting out a child's special educational needs and the support the law requires. This guide explains what it is, who is legally responsible, the part that is enforceable, and what to do when promised support does not arrive.
7 min read · updated 12 May 2026