SEN Advocacy & EHCP Support in Merton
Local SEND context
EHCP and SEN advocacy insight for Merton
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 2,917 active EHC plans, with 519 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 Merton have risen 70% since 2018 — from 1,712 to 2,917 in 2025. A rising caseload can mean longer waits and more pressure on decision-making, so preparing a strong request matters more, not less.
Merton issued 83% of new EHCPs within the 20-week timescale (431 of 519). Timeliness is only one part of the picture: families should still check whether sections B, F and I are specific, quantified and enforceable.
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.
How many children in Merton 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
2,917
New EHC Plans
519
Issued within 20 weeks
83%
431 of 519 new plans
Tribunal Cases
55
Mediation Cases
18
Progress over time in Merton
Every year of published data for Merton, so you can see the trend rather than a single snapshot.
Active EHC Plans
Issued within 20 weeks
Practical next steps for families in Merton
- Confirm Merton's current EHC needs assessment process and SEND team contact details before submitting paperwork.
- Prepare a concise evidence bundle showing the child's needs, current support, what is not working and why an EHCP may be necessary.
- Track each statutory EHCP stage in writing, even where Merton's headline timeliness data looks stronger.
- 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.
Other local authorities we cover in London
SEN advocacy and EHCP support is also available for families in these neighbouring London authorities:
EHCP and SEN advocacy FAQs for Merton
How do I request an EHC Needs Assessment from Merton?
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.
What can I do if Merton refuses to assess or issue an EHCP?
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.
How can a SEN advocate help with Merton 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 Merton?
In the latest published data, 83% 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.