What is an Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment (EHCNA)?
An Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment (EHCNA) is when people take a closer look at what help you need.
It looks at your:
- Education (learning)
- Health
- Care needs
Why might you need one?
Most young people get help through SEN Support in school or college.
But some young people need more support than school can usually give
That’s when an EHC Needs Assessment may be asked for.
Who decides?
The local authority (council) decides if an assessment should happen.
They must do this if they think you may need extra support through a plan
What happens in the assessment?
People will:
- Talk to you and your family
- Ask your school or college
- Get advice from professionals (like doctors or specialists)
This helps them understand what you need to do well
What happens next?
After the assessment:
You might get an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan)
- This is a legal plan of support
Or you might not get an EHCP
- But people will still better understand your needs
- Your school can use this to improve your support
Important to know
- This is a legal process (there are rules and time limits)
- Not everyone who has an assessment gets a plan
- It still helps make your support clearer and better
The aim is to make sure you get the right help to succeed