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EHCP applications surge as England nears one-in-ten target

9/6/2026

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Summary

Story summary

England's schools and councils report a sharp rise in Education, Health and Care plan applications.
Projections suggest children with EHCPs could reach one in ten by 2029, double 2025 levels.
Bill Revans warned the 840,000 EHCP target for 2028-29 will likely be exceeded, stressing budget strain.
Schools minister Georgia Gould said the white paper will add earlier diagnosis and an ‘experts in hand’ scheme.

History

Historical Context

Building on the Children Act 1989’s child-welfare focus, the Children Act 2004 created an independent Children’s Commissioner, first appointed in 2005. The Children and Families Act 2014 then overhauled special-education support, replacing Statements with Education, Health and Care Plans and obliging local authorities to sustain foster placements until age 21. Dame Rachel de Souza has led the Commissioner’s office since 2021.

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Story summary

England's schools and councils report a sharp rise in Education, Health and Care plan applications.
Projections suggest children with EHCPs could reach one in ten by 2029, double 2025 levels.
Bill Revans warned the 840,000 EHCP target for 2028-29 will likely be exceeded, stressing budget strain.
Schools minister Georgia Gould said the white paper will add earlier diagnosis and an ‘experts in hand’ scheme.

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