Local SEND context
For families in London, the practical question is not just how Merton 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.
Merton is responsible for 2,730 active EHC plans, with 424 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.
Merton issued 67% of new EHCPs within 20 weeks (284 of 424). Even where most plans are on time, a significant minority of families may still need help responding to delay, poor draft wording or missing provision.
Merton covers families in Abbey, Cannon Hill, Colliers Wood, Cricket Green, Figge's Marsh, Graveney, Hillside, Lavender Fields, Longthornton, Lower Morden, Merton Park, Pollards Hill, Ravensbury, Raynes Park, St Helier, Village, Wandle, West Barnes, Wimbledon Park and Wimbledon Town & Dundonald and other areas within London.
These figures are drawn from the Department for Education's SEN2 data collection and published inspection information where available.
Active EHC Plans
2,730
New EHC Plans
424
Issued within 20 weeks
67%
284 of 424 new plans
Tribunal Cases
46
Mediation Cases
8
You can request an EHC Needs Assessment directly from Merton 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.
If Merton 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, 67% of new EHCPs in Merton 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.
