SEN Advocacy & EHCP Support in Kent
Local SEND context
EHCP and SEN advocacy insight for Kent
For families in South East, the practical question is not just how Kent 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.
Kent is responsible for 21,742 active EHC plans, with 2,392 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 Kent have risen 85% since 2018 — from 11,763 to 21,742 in 2025. A rising caseload can mean longer waits and more pressure on decision-making, so preparing a strong request matters more, not less.
42% of new EHCPs in Kent were completed within 20 weeks (999 of 2,392). This suggests delays remain a realistic risk, so parents should prepare evidence early and chase missed milestones promptly.
How many children in Kent 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
21,742
New EHC Plans
2,392
Issued within 20 weeks
42%
999 of 2,392 new plans
Tribunal Cases
1,756
Mediation Cases
4
Progress over time in Kent
Every year of published data for Kent, so you can see the trend rather than a single snapshot.
Active EHC Plans
Issued within 20 weeks
Practical next steps for families in Kent
- Check Kent'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 Kent, 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 Kent's Local Offer websiteOther local authorities we cover in South East
SEN advocacy and EHCP support is also available for families in these neighbouring South East authorities:
EHCP and SEN advocacy FAQs for Kent
How do I request an EHC Needs Assessment from Kent?
You can request an EHC Needs Assessment directly from Kent 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 Kent Local Offer link on this page is a useful starting point for local forms, guidance and SEND team information.
What can I do if Kent refuses to assess or issue an EHCP?
If Kent 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 Kent 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 Kent?
In the latest published data, 42% of new EHCPs in Kent 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.