Local SEND context
For families in South West, the practical question is not just how Torbay 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.
Torbay is responsible for 1,643 active EHC plans, with 205 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.
31% of new EHCPs in Torbay were completed within 20 weeks (63 of 205). This suggests delays remain a realistic risk, so parents should prepare evidence early and chase missed milestones promptly.
Torbay covers families in Barton with Watcombe, Churston with Galmpton, Clifton with Maidenway, Cockington with Chelston, Collaton St Mary, Ellacombe, Furzeham with Summercombe, Goodrington with Roselands, King's Ash, Preston, Roundham with Hyde, Shiphay, St Marychurch, St Peter's with St Mary's, Tormohun and Wellswood and other areas within South West.
These figures are drawn from the Department for Education's SEN2 data collection and published inspection information where available.
Active EHC Plans
1,643
New EHC Plans
205
Issued within 20 weeks
31%
63 of 205 new plans
Tribunal Cases
39
Mediation Cases
1
You can request an EHC Needs Assessment directly from Torbay 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 Torbay 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, 31% of new EHCPs in Torbay 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.
