SEN Advocacy & EHCP Support in Westminster
Local SEND context
EHCP and SEN advocacy insight for Westminster
For families in London, the practical question is not just how Westminster 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.
Westminster is responsible for 1,527 active EHC plans, with 198 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 Westminster have risen 41% since 2018 — from 1,084 to 1,527 in 2025. A rising caseload can mean longer waits and more pressure on decision-making, so preparing a strong request matters more, not less.
Westminster issued 92% of new EHCPs within the 20-week timescale (183 of 198). Timeliness is only one part of the picture: families should still check whether sections B, F and I are specific, quantified and enforceable.
Westminster covers families in Abbey Road, Bayswater, Church Street, Harrow Road, Hyde Park, Knightsbridge & Belgravia, Lancaster Gate, Little Venice, Maida Vale, Marylebone, Pimlico North, Pimlico South, Queen's Park, Regent's Park, St James's, Vincent Square, West End and Westbourne and other areas within London.
How many children in Westminster 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
1,527
New EHC Plans
198
Issued within 20 weeks
92%
183 of 198 new plans
Tribunal Cases
46
Mediation Cases
12
Progress over time in Westminster
Every year of published data for Westminster, so you can see the trend rather than a single snapshot.
Active EHC Plans
Issued within 20 weeks
Practical next steps for families in Westminster
- Check Westminster's Local Offer for the current EHC needs assessment process, forms and SEND team contact details.
- 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 Westminster'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.
Local Resources
Local Offer
Visit Westminster's Local Offer websiteOther local authorities we cover in London
SEN advocacy and EHCP support is also available for families in these neighbouring London authorities:
EHCP and SEN advocacy FAQs for Westminster
How do I request an EHC Needs Assessment from Westminster?
You can request an EHC Needs Assessment directly from Westminster 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. The Westminster Local Offer link on this page is a useful starting point for local forms, guidance and SEND team information.
What can I do if Westminster refuses to assess or issue an EHCP?
If Westminster 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 Westminster 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 Westminster?
In the latest published data, 92% of new EHCPs in Westminster 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.