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 2,730 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.
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
2,730
New EHC Plans
424
Issued within 20 weeks
67%
284 of 424 new plans
Tribunal Cases
46
Mediation Cases
8
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.
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, 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.