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Student EHCPs Soar 140% Amid Growing Educational Crisis

7/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The number of students in England with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) has skyrocketed by over 140% in just ten years, surpassing 600,000. This alarming trend, fueled by rising mental health issues, is putting immense financial pressure on local councils. Disturbingly, five-year-olds with special educational needs are falling 20 months behind their peers, revealing a growing educational crisis in the wake of the pandemic.

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Story summary

The number of students in England with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) has skyrocketed by over 140% in just ten years, surpassing 600,000. This alarming trend, fueled by rising mental health issues, is putting immense financial pressure on local councils. Disturbingly, five-year-olds with special educational needs are falling 20 months behind their peers, revealing a growing educational crisis in the wake of the pandemic.