Local SEND context
For families in North West, the practical question is not just how Salford 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.
Salford is responsible for 3,387 active EHC plans, with 511 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.
39% of new EHCPs in Salford were completed within 20 weeks (199 of 511). This suggests delays remain a realistic risk, so parents should prepare evidence early and chase missed milestones promptly.
Salford covers families in Barton & Winton, Blackfriars & Trinity, Boothstown & Ellenbrook, Broughton, Cadishead & Lower Irlam, Claremont, Eccles, Higher Irlam & Peel Green, Kersal & Broughton Park, Little Hulton, Ordsall, Pendlebury & Clifton, Pendleton & Charlestown, Quays, Swinton & Wardley, Swinton Park, Walkden North, Walkden South, Weaste & Seedley and Worsley & Westwood Park and other areas within North West.
These figures are drawn from the Department for Education's SEN2 data collection and published inspection information where available.
Active EHC Plans
3,387
New EHC Plans
511
Issued within 20 weeks
39%
199 of 511 new plans
Tribunal Cases
97
Mediation Cases
20
You can request an EHC Needs Assessment directly from Salford 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 Salford 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, 39% of new EHCPs in Salford 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.
