SEN Advocacy & EHCP Support in Solihull
Local SEND context
EHCP and SEN advocacy insight for Solihull
The SEN Advocate is based in the West Midlands, so families in Solihull are close to our regional SEND advocacy base. That local context matters when preparing evidence, challenging decisions and understanding how local authority processes affect EHCP timescales.
Solihull is responsible for 2,806 active EHC plans, with 419 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 Solihull have risen 92% since 2018 — from 1,461 to 2,806 in 2025. A rising caseload can mean longer waits and more pressure on decision-making, so preparing a strong request matters more, not less.
36% of new EHCPs in Solihull were completed within 20 weeks (151 of 419). This suggests delays remain a realistic risk, so parents should prepare evidence early and chase missed milestones promptly.
Solihull covers families in Bickenhill, Blythe, Castle Bromwich, Chelmsley Wood, Dorridge and Hockley Heath, Elmdon, Kingshurst and Fordbridge, Knowle, Lyndon, Meriden, Olton, Shirley East, Shirley South, Shirley West, Silhill, Smith's Wood and St Alphege and other areas within West Midlands.
How many children in Solihull 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
2,806
New EHC Plans
419
Issued within 20 weeks
36%
151 of 419 new plans
Tribunal Cases
184
Mediation Cases
26
Progress over time in Solihull
Every year of published data for Solihull, so you can see the trend rather than a single snapshot.
Active EHC Plans
Issued within 20 weeks
Practical next steps for families in Solihull
- Confirm Solihull'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 the 20-week EHCP deadline closely in Solihull, because the latest data suggests delay is a realistic risk for many families.
- 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 West Midlands
SEN advocacy and EHCP support is also available for families in these neighbouring West Midlands authorities:
EHCP and SEN advocacy FAQs for Solihull
How do I request an EHC Needs Assessment from Solihull?
You can request an EHC Needs Assessment directly from Solihull 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 Solihull refuses to assess or issue an EHCP?
If Solihull 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 Solihull 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 Solihull?
In the latest published data, 36% of new EHCPs in Solihull 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.