Local SEND context
For families in North West, the practical question is not just how Blackburn with Darwen performs on paper, but what the local data means for a child who needs support now. The figures below help identify where delays, disputes or evidence gaps may create pressure points.
Blackburn with Darwen is responsible for 1,522 active EHC plans, with 262 new plans recorded in the latest 2025 data. For parents, that means EHCP decisions are being made inside a busy local system where clear evidence and a well-structured request can make a material difference.
Blackburn with Darwen issued 86% of new EHCPs within the 20-week timescale (225 of 262). Timeliness is only one part of the picture: families should still check whether sections B, F and I are specific, quantified and enforceable.
Blackburn with Darwen covers families in Audley & Queen's Park, Bastwell & Daisyfield, Billinge & Beardwood, Blackburn Central, Blackburn South & Lower Darwen, Blackburn South East, Darwen East, Darwen South, Darwen West, Ewood, Little Harwood & Whitebirk, Livesey with Pleasington, Mill Hill & Moorgate, Roe Lee, Shear Brow & Corporation Park, Wensley Fold and West Pennine and other areas within North West.
These figures are drawn from the Department for Education's SEN2 data collection and published inspection information where available.
Active EHC Plans
1,522
New EHC Plans
262
Issued within 20 weeks
86%
225 of 262 new plans
Tribunal Cases
18
Mediation Cases
6
SEN contact email
local.offer@blackburn.gov.ukSEN contact phone
01254 503049You can request an EHC Needs Assessment directly from Blackburn with Darwen local authority. The strongest requests usually include clear school evidence, professional reports where available, examples of unmet need and a concise explanation of why SEN Support is not enough. The Blackburn with Darwen Local Offer link on this page is a useful starting point for local forms, guidance and SEND team information.
If Blackburn with Darwen refuses to assess or refuses to issue an EHCP after assessment, parents and young people usually have a right of appeal to the SEND Tribunal. You should read the decision letter carefully, note the appeal deadline and request mediation information before deciding how to proceed.
A SEN advocate can help by reviewing evidence, strengthening the EHC needs assessment request, checking draft EHCP wording and preparing the issues for mediation or SEND Tribunal.
In the latest published data, 86% of new EHCPs in Blackburn with Darwen were issued within the 20-week timescale, so families should keep dated records and follow up missed deadlines. If your case is delayed, ask for written updates, keep copies of every submission and consider taking advice before accepting a weak draft plan.
