Education, Health and Care Plans (EHC Plan) must be reviewed each year to check the child or young person’s needs are being met.

Once an EHC Plan is in place for a child or young person, it is unlikely to remain the same over time. Through time it may become out of date, and the child or young person may move to a different school or college or even a different area.

The purpose of an annual review

  • happens at least every 12 months to check the child or young person’s needs are being met
  • looks at the progress your child is making
  • checks if targets and outcomes are still fair
  • makes sure your views, wishes and feelings are heard
  • involves you in the decision making, which is called a person-centred process
  • consider any changes in circumstances and whether there should be a change in provision, placement
  • checks to see if an EHC Plan is still required

Understanding the review

Wolverhampton Information, Advice and Support Service (WIASS) can offer help to understand the annual review process.

This may include:

  • support to understand information
  • to feel confident to express views
  • to fully participate in all aspects of the process and decision making.

Wolverhampton Information Advice and Support website explains the process in more detail for parents, carers and young people.

It includes:

  • Who is requested to attend the annual review meeting and contribute?
  • The meeting
  • The report
  • The decision

WIASS also offers an Annual Review factsheet which covers each aspect of the review and possible outcomes.

Documents and guidance for practitioners to follow