Local SEND context
For families in Yorkshire and The Humber, the practical question is not just how Leeds 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.
Leeds is responsible for 6,093 active EHC plans, with 773 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.
Only 9% of new EHCPs in Leeds were issued within the statutory 20-week timescale (67 of 773). Families facing this level of delay should focus on submitting a robust request from the start and keeping a clear paper trail if deadlines slip.
Leeds covers families in Adel & Wharfedale, Alwoodley, Ardsley & Robin Hood, Armley, Beeston & Holbeck, Bramley & Stanningley, Burmantofts & Richmond Hill, Calverley & Farsley, Chapel Allerton, Cross Gates & Whinmoor, Farnley & Wortley, Garforth & Swillington, Gipton & Harehills, Guiseley & Rawdon, Harewood, Headingley & Hyde Park, Horsforth, Hunslet & Riverside, Killingbeck & Seacroft, Kippax & Methley, Kirkstall, Little London & Woodhouse, Middleton Park, Moortown, Morley North, Morley South, Otley & Yeadon, Pudsey, Rothwell, Roundhay, Temple Newsam, Weetwood and Wetherby and other areas within Yorkshire and The Humber.
These figures are drawn from the Department for Education's SEN2 data collection and published inspection information where available.
Active EHC Plans
6,093
New EHC Plans
773
Issued within 20 weeks
9%
67 of 773 new plans
Tribunal Cases
126
Mediation Cases
8
Local Offer
Visit Leeds's Local Offer websiteYou can request an EHC Needs Assessment directly from Leeds 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 Leeds Local Offer link on this page is a useful starting point for local forms, guidance and SEND team information.
If Leeds 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, 9% of new EHCPs in Leeds 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.
