Local SEND context
For families in London, the practical question is not just how Waltham Forest 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.
Waltham Forest is responsible for 3,663 active EHC plans, with 389 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.
Waltham Forest issued 59% of new EHCPs within 20 weeks (231 of 389). 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.
Waltham Forest covers families in Cann Hall, Cathall, Chapel End, Chingford Green, Endlebury, Forest, Grove Green, Hale End & Highams Park South, Hatch Lane & Highams Park North, High Street, Higham Hill, Hoe Street, Larkswood, Lea Bridge, Leyton, Leytonstone, Markhouse, St James, Upper Walthamstow, Valley, William Morris and Wood Street and other areas within London.
These figures are drawn from the Department for Education's SEN2 data collection and published inspection information where available.
Active EHC Plans
3,663
New EHC Plans
389
Issued within 20 weeks
59%
231 of 389 new plans
Tribunal Cases
58
Mediation Cases
5
You can request an EHC Needs Assessment directly from Waltham Forest 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 Waltham Forest 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, 59% of new EHCPs in Waltham Forest 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.
