SEN Advocacy & EHCP Support in Derby
Local SEND context
EHCP and SEN advocacy insight for Derby
For families in East Midlands, the practical question is not just how Derby 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.
Derby is responsible for 3,734 active EHC plans, with 652 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.
Looking at the trend rather than a single year, EHC plans in Derby have risen 97% since 2018 — from 1,895 to 3,734 in 2025. A rising caseload can mean longer waits and more pressure on decision-making, so preparing a strong request matters more, not less.
38% of new EHCPs in Derby were completed within 20 weeks (245 of 652). This suggests delays remain a realistic risk, so parents should prepare evidence early and chase missed milestones promptly.
Derby covers families in Abbey, Allestree, Alvaston North, Alvaston South, Arboretum, Blagreaves, Chaddesden East, Chaddesden North, Chaddesden West, Chellaston & Shelton Lock, Darley, Littleover, Mackworth & New Zealand, Mickleover, Normanton, Oakwood, Sinfin & Osmaston and Spondon and other areas within East Midlands.
How many children in Derby have an Education, Health and Care Plan?
These figures are drawn from the Department for Education's SEN2 data collection and published inspection information where available.
Active EHC Plans
3,734
New EHC Plans
652
Issued within 20 weeks
38%
245 of 652 new plans
Tribunal Cases
223
Mediation Cases
17
Progress over time in Derby
Every year of published data for Derby, so you can see the trend rather than a single snapshot.
Active EHC Plans
Issued within 20 weeks
Practical next steps for families in Derby
- Check Derby's Local Offer for the current EHC needs assessment process, forms and SEND team contact details.
- Prepare a concise evidence bundle showing the child's needs, current support, what is not working and why an EHCP may be necessary.
- Track the 20-week EHCP deadline closely in Derby, because the latest data suggests delay is a realistic risk for many families.
- Before appealing, identify the exact decision being challenged and the evidence needed to support each issue.
- Consider early SEN advocate support if you need help with evidence, EHCP wording, mediation or SEND tribunal preparation.
Local Resources
Local Offer
Visit Derby's Local Offer websiteOther local authorities we cover in East Midlands
SEN advocacy and EHCP support is also available for families in these neighbouring East Midlands authorities:
EHCP and SEN advocacy FAQs for Derby
How do I request an EHC Needs Assessment from Derby?
You can request an EHC Needs Assessment directly from Derby 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 Derby Local Offer link on this page is a useful starting point for local forms, guidance and SEND team information.
What can I do if Derby refuses to assess or issue an EHCP?
If Derby 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.
How can a SEN advocate help with Derby EHCP problems?
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.
Are EHCP delays common in Derby?
In the latest published data, 38% of new EHCPs in Derby 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.