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  • 👉 Section 42: The Law That Makes EHCPs Legally Binding

    If your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), you might be told by schools or the Local Authority that support depends on funding, resources, or staff availability. But here’s the truth: EHCPs are legally binding.

    And that comes from Section 42 of the Children and Families Act 2014.

    What Does Section 42 Say?

    Section 42 makes it clear:

    👉 Local Authorities must secure the special educational provision set out in Section F of an EHCP.

    That means:

    • If the EHCP specifies speech and language therapy, it must be delivered.
    • If it specifies 1:1 support for 20 hours a week, those hours must be provided.
    • If it names a particular intervention or piece of equipment, the LA must fund and deliver it.

    There’s no get-out clause. Words like “must secure” mean this is a legal duty, not a suggestion.

    Why It Matters

    Too often, EHCPs are written vaguely — with phrases like “access to support” or “regular opportunities”. The problem is, vague wording can’t be enforced.

    Section 42 only works for families if Section F is specific, detailed, and quantified. That’s why it’s so important to push for clear language when your EHCP is being drafted or reviewed.

    What Parents Can Do

    💡 To make Section 42 work for your child:

    1. Check Section F — is it specific? Does it say who, what, how often, how long?
    2. Challenge vague language — terms like “regular,” “access to,” or “as needed” are too weak.
    3. Keep records — if provision in Section F isn’t happening, keep notes and emails.
    4. Escalate — if the LA fails to deliver, you can use the complaints process, Ombudsman, or tribunal.

    Final Thought

    Section 42 is one of the strongest protections in SEND law. It’s the reason an EHCP is more than just a piece of paper — it’s a legal guarantee of support.

    👉 Want to check if your child’s EHCP is enforceable? We’ve created free resources and templates to help: AskEllie.co.uk.

  • 💡 The Hidden Part of the EHCP That Changes Everything

    When parents first look at an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), most focus on the sections about their child’s needs and outcomes. But the real power of an EHCP lies in a section that’s often overlooked — and it can completely change your child’s support.

    That section is Section F.

    What is Section F?

    Section F is where the special educational provision your child needs is written down. It’s the place where words are turned into action.

    And here’s why it matters: under Section 42 of the Children and Families Act 2014, the Local Authority has a legal duty to deliver everything written in Section F.

    If it’s in Section F, it must happen. If it’s not in Section F, it’s not enforceable.

    Why Section F is So Powerful

    Section F is the difference between:

    • “Access to speech therapy” → vague, unenforceable.
    • “1 hour of direct speech and language therapy every week, delivered by a qualified therapist” → specific, enforceable in law.

    The first example can be ignored without consequences. The second example is legally binding.

    That’s why Section F is the hidden part of the EHCP that changes everything.

    Common Mistakes

    Too many EHCPs use vague wording like:

    • “Regular support”
    • “Access to interventions”
    • “Opportunities to develop skills”

    These phrases sound helpful but are too weak. They don’t guarantee anything.

    What Parents Can Do

    💡 To make sure Section F protects your child:

    1. Check every line — is it clear, specific, and measurable?
    2. Remove vague words like “regular,” “opportunities,” or “as required.”
    3. Add detail — who delivers the support, how often, for how long.
    4. Challenge drafts — you can push back if the language is too weak.
    5. Keep copies — if Section F is strong, you can enforce it through complaints, the Ombudsman, or tribunal.

    Final Thought

    Section F might look like just another part of the EHCP, but it’s the section that makes the difference between promises and action. If you get it right, your child’s support is secured in law. If you don’t, your child risks being left without the help they need.

    👉 Want help checking if Section F in your EHCP is strong enough? Download free guides and templates at AskEllie.co.uk.

  • 🚨 Is Roblox Safe? What Parents Need to Know About the Dangers — and How to Protect Children

    Roblox is one of the most popular online platforms in the world, with over 40 million children under the age of 13 playing every day. It’s a creative space where kids can build games, explore virtual worlds, and play with friends.

    But in recent weeks, Roblox has been under fire in the news and across social media. Concerns about online predators, inappropriate content, and data privacy have left many parents asking: is Roblox safe for my child?

    At AskEllie, we want to cut through the fear and misinformation to give you the facts — and practical steps you can take to protect your child.

    🚨 What’s Happening With Roblox?

    • Whistleblower banned: Roblox banned a man who exposed multiple predators on the platform, sparking outrage. Parents feel that instead of tackling the predators themselves, Roblox punished the person raising the alarm.
    • Petition signed by 100,000 people: In response, a huge number of parents and campaigners demanded Roblox improve child safety.
    • Inappropriate games: Even with maximum parental controls switched on, children as young as 8 have been able to access disturbing content, including games with sexualised or violent themes.
    • Biometric verification coming: Roblox is now trialling face scans and ID checks. But parents are rightly asking — what happens to children’s biometric data? Is it stored, deleted, or misused?

    ⚠️ Why Parents Are Concerned

    • Predators & Grooming: Open chat features and community-created games can expose children to grooming attempts.
    • Unsafe Content: Games like “Public Bathroom” have raised alarm bells about what children can stumble across.
    • Profit vs Safety: Critics argue Roblox prioritises engagement (and profit) over genuine child safety.
    • Data Privacy: Biometric verification may stop some risks — but raises new questions about how children’s personal data is handled.

    ✅ How Parents Can Protect Their Children

    Here are practical steps every parent should take if their child plays Roblox:

    1. Use Parental Controls
      • In your child’s Roblox settings, set the account to “under 13.”
      • Turn on chat filters and restrict in-game purchases.
    2. Regularly Review Games
      • Check the titles your child is playing. Block or report anything inappropriate.
    3. Talk to Your Child
      • Especially for neurodiverse children, make sure they understand:
        • Never share personal info (age, address, school).
        • Leave a game immediately if they feel uncomfortable.
    4. Set Boundaries
      • Agree on time limits and check in on their gameplay.
      • Play with them occasionally to see what the environment is like.
    5. Stay Informed
      • Keep up with Roblox safety updates and government regulations like the Online Safety Act, which is pushing companies to take child protection seriously.

    💡 Final Thoughts

    Roblox isn’t going away — it’s too big, and millions of children enjoy it daily. But parents need to be aware of the risks, set strong boundaries, and stay informed.

    At AskEllie, our mission is to help families cut through fear and rumours with facts you can trust.

    👉 If you’re worried about online safety or need SEND-focused parenting support, visit www.AskEllie.co.uk.

  • 🚨 Mass Fatality Contracts: What Parents Need to Know (and Why Not to Panic)

    Over the past week, viral videos have spread across TikTok and Facebook claiming that the UK government has signed “mass fatality contracts” — and suggesting this means something terrible is about to happen. Understandably, many parents have been left feeling anxious and afraid.

    At AskEllie, our role is to cut through fear and rumours with facts. Here’s what you need to know.

    🚨 What Are Mass Fatality Contracts?

    “Mass fatality contracts” are agreements that local authorities or central government sometimes sign with private companies, usually funeral providers or facilities managers. They are designed to ensure there is extra capacity available in the event of a major incident.

    This could include:

    • Natural disasters
    • Pandemics (like COVID-19)
    • Terror attacks
    • Large-scale accidents

    These contracts are not new. In fact, they have existed for decades. They are part of routine emergency planning to make sure the system can cope if the worst were ever to happen.

    ⚠️ Why Are People Worried Now?

    • A clip highlighting a recently renewed contract went viral on TikTok, framed as if it was “secret evidence” of an imminent disaster.
    • The language — “mass fatality” — sounds frightening, especially without context.
    • Social media amplified the claim, creating fear that “the government knows something we don’t.”

    But the truth is simple: these contracts are renewed regularly and published openly in procurement databases. They are not a sign that something is about to happen.

    ✅ What Parents Should Know

    1. This is normal emergency planning. Governments everywhere plan for worst-case scenarios — it doesn’t mean one is imminent.
    2. These contracts existed long before now. They were in place during COVID-19 and even before, to ensure resilience.
    3. The scary framing is the issue. Social media posts often strip out context, making routine planning sound like a secret warning.

    💡 How to Talk to Children About It

    If your child sees these videos online and asks about them:

    • Reassure them: “This doesn’t mean something bad is about to happen, it just means the government has a backup plan — like schools doing fire drills.”
    • Remind them not everything online is true.
    • Encourage them to ask questions if something they see worries them.

    🧭 Final Thoughts

    Mass fatality contracts are not evidence of a looming disaster. They are simply part of the safety net governments put in place to be prepared.

    At AskEllie, we know parents are bombarded with rumours that can be frightening. That’s why we exist — to provide fact-checked, calm guidance, especially when children’s wellbeing and family peace of mind are at stake.

    👉 Stay informed, not fearful. For more myth-busting and SEND parent support, visit www.AskEllie.co.uk.

  • 🚨 UK Terror Threat Level: What “Substantial” Really Means for Families

    Recently, viral TikTok videos and social media posts have claimed that the UK’s current terror threat level means parents should be too scared to send their children to school. Some even suggest schools are at immediate risk. Understandably, this has caused worry and confusion.

    At AskEllie, we want to cut through the fear and explain what the “substantial” threat level really means — and why it isn’t the warning some videos make it sound like.

    🚨 What Does “Substantial” Mean?

    The UK uses a 5-point terror threat system, managed by MI5 and the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC):

    • Low – an attack is highly unlikely
    • Moderate – an attack is possible but not likely
    • Substantial – an attack is likely
    • Severe – an attack is highly likely
    • Critical – an attack is highly likely in the near future

    Right now, the level is set at substantial.

    ⚠️ Why Parents Are Concerned

    • Some viral posts are framing this as if it’s “new information” that means schools are under direct threat.
    • In reality, the UK threat level has moved between substantial and severe for years, often without parents even noticing.
    • The level reflects a general risk across the country, not a specific plot or warning about schools.

    ✅ What This Means for You and Your Children

    1. Day-to-day life continues as normal. Threat levels are used by police and security services to guide resources — they are not a signal to keep children home.
    2. Schools are not being directly targeted. While schools may practise safety drills, these are part of general safeguarding — not because of an imminent danger.
    3. It’s about preparation, not panic. A “substantial” level means authorities are alert and planning ahead, not that families should change daily routines.

    🧭 How to Talk to Children About It

    If your child has seen scary TikTok clips:

    • Reassure them that nothing has changed in their school environment.
    • Explain that the government always prepares for “what ifs,” just like schools run fire drills.
    • Encourage them to come to you with questions instead of worrying silently.

    💡 Final Thoughts

    The UK terror threat level being at “substantial” is not new, and it does not mean schools or children are under immediate threat.

    Unfortunately, social media often amplifies rumours, stripping away the context and creating unnecessary fear.

    At AskEllie, our mission is to help parents stay informed with facts, not fear — so that families can make decisions based on truth, not panic.

    👉 For more fact-checks and SEND parent support, visit www.AskEllie.co.uk.

  • 💡 Free (or Nearly Free) Things That Make Life Easier for SEND Families

    Money is tight. Days out are hard. And half the helpful schemes are hidden. This page rounds up the cards, passes, and services that can save you time, stress, and cash—with clear notes on who it’s for, what you get, and how to apply.

    Quick Wins (start here)

    CEA Card – Free Carer at the Cinema

    https://www.ceacard.co.uk

    What it is: A card that lets a parent/carer go free with a disabled child at most UK cinemas.
    Helps with: Cost, dignity (no re‑explaining needs every visit).
    Usually need: DLA/PIP or similar evidence.
    How to apply: Online application; small annual fee (often covered by some local charities).

    Max Card – Discounted Days Out

    https://mymaxcard.co.uk

    What it is: A discount card for families of children with additional needs.
    Helps with: Cheaper entry at hundreds of attractions (theme parks, museums, farms, play centres).
    Usually need: DLA/EHCP/Local Offer eligibility (varies by area).
    How to get it: Often issued via your Local Authority, school SENCo, or local charities.

    Access Card (+1)

    https://www.accesscard.online

    What it is: A card with symbols that discreetly communicate needs (e.g., +1 carer, queueing difficulty).
    Helps with: Proof for carer tickets, queue adjustments, reduced explanations.
    Usually need: Evidence of disability/need when you apply.
    Good for: Large venues, concerts, theme parks.

    Sunflower Lanyard (Hidden Disabilities)

    https://hdsunflower.com

    What it is: A free lanyard used in supermarkets, airports, and many venues to indicate a hidden disability.
    Helps with: Extra time, patience, quiet support.
    How to get it: Ask at customer services (most major supermarkets/airports have them) or order online.

    Merlin Attractions – Carer Tickets / Ride Access

    https://www.merlinannualpass.co.uk/important-information/passholder-help/passholder-accessibility

    What it is: Many Merlin parks (LEGOLAND, Alton Towers, Chessington, etc.) offer free carer tickets and Ride Access Passes for guests who can’t queue.
    Helps with: Cost and queueing adjustments for sensory/anxiety needs.
    Usually need: DLA/PIP/Access Card or medical evidence.
    How to apply: Check each park’s Accessibility page; upload evidence in advance where required.

    Services & Support You Don’t Pay For

    SENDIASS (Free, Independent Advice)

    What it is: Your local SEND Information, Advice and Support Service.
    Helps with: EHCPs, meetings, complaints, reasonable adjustments, tribunals.
    How to find it: Search “SENDIASS + your council”.

    Local Offer (Activities & Short Breaks)

    What it is: Every council must publish a Local Offer listing SEND services, activities, short breaks, and grants.
    Helps with: Free/low‑cost clubs, respite, holiday schemes, equipment.
    How to find it: Search “[Your Council] Local Offer”.

    DLA / PIP Form Help (Free)

    What it is: Charities provide free guidance to complete DLA/PIP forms.
    Helps with: Getting the wording right so you don’t miss out.
    Who to ask: Contact, Citizens Advice, and local carers’ organisations.

    Carer Support & Discounts

    What it is: Local carers’ centres offer free advice, small grants, breaks, and discount schemes.
    Helps with: Money off essentials, respite options, wellbeing support.
    How to find it: Search “carers centre + your town”.

    Travel & Days Out

    Disabled Person’s Bus Pass (and Companion Pass)

    What it is: Free or discounted bus travel for disabled passengers; many areas offer a free companion pass too.
    Helps with: School runs, appointments, days out without driving.
    How to apply: Via your local council website.

    National Trust / English Heritage Accessibility

    What it is: Free Essential Companion cards and inclusive access schemes.
    Helps with: Calmer outdoor spaces; carer goes free.
    How to apply: Check each organisation’s accessibility page.

    Airports: Special Assistance & Sunflower Lanyard

    What it is: Free airport assistance through security and boarding; lanyard signals hidden needs.
    How to arrange: Tell your airline at booking (or at least 48 hours before), then visit the Special Assistance desk at the airport.

    ——————————————————————-

    National Disability Card

    More info & apply: www.nationaldisabilitycard.co.uk

    A nationally recognised photo ID card for disabled people that can be used to discreetly prove disability without explaining personal details. Accepted in many attractions, shops, and events to access concessions or reasonable adjustments.
    Cost: Around £15 (valid for 3 years).

    Tip Sheet: Applying Without Stress

    • Evidence beats essays. DLA/PIP award letter, EHCP, professional letters—attach what you have.
    • Ask locally first. Many councils/charities fund fees (CEA/Access Card) or issue Max Cards directly.
    • Plan for crowds. Look for quiet hours, morning slots, or SEND sessions.
    • Email accessibility teams. A short, polite email before you go often unlocks smoother support.
    • Keep a folder on your phone. Photos/PDFs of letters save time and reduce awkward conversations.

    FAQ

    Do I need a diagnosis for these?
    Not always. Many schemes accept evidence of need (EHCP, professional letter) rather than a formal diagnosis.

    Can I get a free carer ticket without an Access Card?
    Often yes—venues usually accept DLA/PIP proof or their own online forms. The Access Card just makes it easier.

    Is Max Card nationwide?
    Coverage varies by area. If your council doesn’t issue it, ask local charities—they sometimes can.

    Keep This Page Handy

    We’ll update this list regularly. If you find a great free (or low‑cost) scheme for SEND families, tell us and we’ll add it.

    Need help wording emails or applications?
    Head to our Template Letters page for quick copy‑and‑paste messages to venues, schools, and councils.

    More support: AskEllie helps with EHCPs, Section 19, transport, appeals and more—free tools built by SEND parents, for SEND parents.

  • 📚 Is Your Child Out of School? Section 19 of the Education Act Could Be Your Lifeline

    If your child has been out of school for weeks — or even months — due to anxiety, unmet SEND needs, school refusal, or lack of a suitable placement, you are not alone. And more importantly, you are not powerless.

    Many families believe they have to wait for an EHCP, a new school place, or a tribunal before their child can access education again. But there’s one powerful section of the law that changes everything — and most parents have never heard of it.

    💡 What Is Section 19 of the Education Act 1996?

    Section 19 places a legal duty on your local authority (LA) to provide suitable education to any child who cannot attend school — for any reason, including:

    • Mental health difficulties or school-related anxiety
    • Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA)
    • Exclusion or off-rolling
    • No school place due to SEN/disability

    The education doesn’t need to be in a school — it could be home tuition, online lessons, or a bespoke package. But it must be suitable for your child’s age, ability, and needs.

    🚨 “But I Don’t Have an EHCP — Does That Matter?”

    No. You do not need an EHCP to invoke Section 19.

    The only requirement is that your child is of compulsory school age and not receiving a suitable education — whether temporarily or long-term. The LA cannot delay action by blaming waiting lists, staff shortages, or paperwork. The duty applies now.

    🧠 Why So Many Families Get Stuck

    We hear this all the time:

    “The school said they referred to the LA, but nothing’s happened.”
    “I didn’t know I could write to the council myself.”
    “No one told me about Section 19.”

    Local authorities often don’t proactively act unless parents assert their rights in writing. That’s where our free template can help.

    ✉️ Take Action: Use Our Free Section 19 Letter Template

    If your child is out of school and not receiving suitable education, you can write to the LA yourself using the letter below. It references the legal duty under Section 19 and requests urgent provision.

    You don’t need legal training. You don’t need to wait. You just need to ask — in writing.

    👇 Download or copy the full letter here:

    👉 DOWNLOAD PDF

    (TEMPLATE BELLOW COPY/PASTE)

    ———————————————————————

    Re: Provision of Suitable Education for [Child’s Name] (DOB: [dd/mm/yyyy]) under Section 19 of the Education Act 1996

    Dear [Director of Children’s Services / Name if known],

    I am writing to formally request immediate educational provision for my son/daughter, [Child’s Full Name], who has been out of school and without access to a suitable, full-time education since [insert date], due to [brief reason – e.g. anxiety/EBSA/lack of placement/exclusion].

    As you are aware, Section 19 of the Education Act 1996 places a statutory duty on the local authority to provide suitable education for any child of compulsory school age who, by reason of illness, exclusion, or otherwise, is unable to attend a suitable school.

    [Child’s Name] remains without an appropriate full-time education. While I understand that [school name] has contacted the LA regarding this matter, I have yet to receive any meaningful communication, plan, or provision from the authority.

    I therefore request that:

    1. You confirm, in writing, what steps the LA is taking to fulfil its legal duty under Section 19.
    2. Suitable interim education is arranged and delivered without further delay — such as home tuition, online learning, or an alternative placement.
    3. A named case officer is provided so that I can liaise directly regarding provision for my child.

    Please treat this as an urgent matter. The lack of provision is impacting my child’s well-being, mental health, and right to education — and if this is not resolved promptly, I will be forced to consider escalating this via formal complaint, pre-action protocol, or judicial review.

    I look forward to your reply within 10 working days.

    Yours faithfully,
    [Your Name]

    ———————————————————————

    💛 You’re Not Failing. The System Is.

    If your child is out of education, don’t let the system make you feel like it’s your fault. The law is clear. And you have the right to hold them to it.

    Need more support?
    🟡 Visit AskEllie.co.uk — our free AI assistant can help you understand your rights, write letters, and take action confidently.

  • 💥 What Even Is Section 19? The Law No One Tells You About

    You’ve probably heard the phrase “Section 19” thrown around in forums or Facebook comments — usually when a child’s out of school with no plan. But what actually is it? And why is no one talking about it?

    Let’s break it down.

    ⚖️ Section 19 — The Basics

    Section 19 of the Education Act 1996 says that if a child can’t attend school — because of illness, anxiety, SEND needs or any other reason — the local authority has a legal duty to arrange suitable education.

    Not a favour.
    Not “if they feel like it.”
    A legal duty.

    🚨 When Does Section 19 Apply?

    If your child is of compulsory school age and has been out of school for 15 or more school days (either in a row or broken up), then technically, Section 19 kicks in.

    And here’s the part no one tells you:
    It doesn’t matter if you’re waiting for an EHCP.
    It doesn’t matter if you’re “in between placements.”
    It doesn’t matter if the school says “we’re still looking.”

    The council still has a duty.

    ❌ But They’ll Tell You…

    • “There’s no funding right now.”
    • “We’re waiting for a place.”
    • “You need medical evidence.”
    • “It’s the school’s job.”

    💡 None of these override the law. The actual law says education must be full-time (or as much as your child can manage), suitable for their age, ability and needs — and arranged by the council.

    🧠 So What Does ‘Suitable Education’ Mean?

    It could be:

    • 1:1 tutoring at home
    • Online learning
    • A temporary provision
    • Specialist outreach

    But whatever it is, it must start without delay. You shouldn’t be stuck in limbo while “they figure it out.”

    🛠️ How AskEllie Can Help

    Section 19 is exactly why we built Ellie. Most parents aren’t lawyers — and they shouldn’t have to be.

    AskEllie can:

    • Tell you if your child is likely eligible
    • Help you write the right kind of letter
    • Decode the LA’s response
    • Explain what steps to take next

    For free. 24/7. No appointments. Just head to AskEllie.co.uk

    💬 Final Word

    If your child’s out of school and nothing’s happening, don’t wait. Section 19 is the law, even if your LA pretends it’s optional.

    We’ve seen it work. We’ve helped parents use it.
    And you don’t have to face it alone.

  • 🚨 Are EHCPs Being Replaced? What Parents Need to Know

    You might’ve seen some worrying headlines recently about EHCPs (Education, Health and Care Plans) being replaced — and sadly, they’re not just clickbait.

    The government is already testing a new model in parts of the country where EHCPs are swapped for “SEND units” inside mainstream schools.

    ❓ What’s a “SEND unit”?

    It’s a classroom or section inside a mainstream school for children with additional needs — grouped together, usually by diagnosis. Sounds familiar, right?

    But here’s the catch: these children won’t have individual legal plans like an EHCP.

    Instead, the unit has a general support framework — meaning your child’s needs are no longer recognised in a legally binding document. The specific therapies, hours of TA support, or specialist strategies your child needs might no longer be enforceable.

    💥 Why this could be a disaster for many families

    Let’s be clear: EHCPs aren’t perfect. But they are the only legal protection most families have. Without them:

    • There’s no duty on the local authority to deliver specific support
    • You can’t take the council to tribunal for failing to meet your child’s needs
    • The school becomes the gatekeeper — not your child’s plan

    The new approach seems focused on cost and convenience, not children.

    And that’s the most worrying bit: they’re trialling this quietly — without wide consultation with families.

    🧩 One-size-fits-all won’t work

    Children with SEND don’t fit neatly into categories.

    A child with ADHD doesn’t need the same strategies as one with sensory processing disorder. A child with PDA can be overwhelmed by the same approaches that help others thrive.

    EHCPs allow for that nuance. “SEND units” risk erasing it.

    🙋‍♀️ What can parents do?

    • Stay informed – AskEllie will keep sharing updates in plain English
    • Share the news – Many parents still haven’t heard this is happening
    • Speak up – Write to your MP. Ask questions at school. Push for consultation
    • Sign the petition – [Link to petition if you have one available]

    💬 Final thoughts

    This isn’t scaremongering — this is already happening.

    EHCPs were never perfect, but they gave families a voice and a legal tool. If that’s removed, we risk going backwards to a time when support was patchy, vague, and often denied.

    We’ll keep shouting about it — and if you’re feeling overwhelmed, know this: you’re not alone. AskEllie exists to make things clearer, and we’re with you every step.

  • ⚠️ EHCPs Are Under Threat: What Parents Need to Know

    If you’ve seen the latest news (or our TikTok videos), you’ll know that something serious is happening behind the scenes when it comes to EHCPs — and it could affect your child’s future.

    💬 What’s going on?

    A local council recently admitted to refusing an EHCP not because the child didn’t need it — but because the support was “too expensive.”

    Let that sink in.

    This isn’t how it’s supposed to work. EHCPs (Education, Health and Care Plans) are legal documents that set out what support a child with special educational needs must receive. Decisions about them should be based on a child’s needs, not a council’s budget.

    But councils are under pressure. Some are now prioritising cost over care, and if proposed reforms go ahead, it could get worse.

    ❌ What are the risks?

    If EHCPs get diluted or replaced, we could be facing a system where:

    • There’s no legal duty to provide the support your child needs
    • Councils can quietly cut hours, therapies, or even whole plans
    • Parents have no real power to challenge unfair decisions

    This isn’t fear-mongering — it’s already happening in pockets of the country.

    💡 What can parents do?

    1. Know your rights
      The law is still on your side. Right now, councils must meet the needs in an EHCP once it’s issued. If your child needs one, they have a right to it, regardless of how “expensive” it is.
    2. Speak out
      Share posts, write to your MP, and raise awareness. These decisions are often made quietly unless we make noise.
    3. Use AskEllie.co.uk
      Our free AI assistant is here to help you:
      • Understand EHCPs
      • Respond to council letters
      • Draft appeals and complaints
      • Learn what the law says in plain English

    🧠 Why this matters

    For many families, the EHCP is the only tool we have to hold councils to account. Take that away, and we’re left pleading for help — with no legal backup.

    We can’t let that happen.

    So whether you’re just starting the EHCP process, in the middle of a fight, or worried about what’s coming — you are not alone.

    Let AskEllie stand beside you. Because when parents have knowledge, they have power.

    👉 Visit AskEllie.co.uk for tools, templates and support.