What the annual review involves

Every EHCP must be reviewed at least once a year under Regulation 18 of the SEND Regulations 2014. The review meeting brings together the school, the local authority, parents, and professionals who are involved with your child. The purpose is to check whether the outcomes in the plan are being achieved, whether the provision is being delivered effectively, and whether any amendments are needed. This is your opportunity to ensure the EHCP is still working for your child - or to push for improvements if it isn't.

How to prepare in ${b}

Before the review meeting in South Tyneside, read the current EHCP carefully and note which outcomes have been achieved and which haven't. Gather any recent professional reports, school progress data, and evidence of your child's difficulties or successes. Write down what you want to discuss and what changes you're requesting. Talk to your child about their experience of school and how they feel the support is working. This preparation will put you in a strong position at the meeting.

Your rights under Section 44 CFA 2014

Under Section 44 of the Children and Families Act 2014, you have the right to attend the annual review and to be fully involved in discussions about your child's needs and progress. You have the right to see all reports before the meeting, to contribute your own evidence, and to express your views about whether the EHCP should be maintained, amended, or ceased. South Tyneside Council cannot make decisions about the EHCP without considering your input.

After the review - what happens next

After the review meeting, South Tyneside Council has 4 weeks to decide whether to maintain the EHCP, amend it, or cease it. If they decide to amend the plan, they must send you a draft of the proposed amendments and you have 15 days to respond. If you disagree with their decision, you can request an emergency review or appeal to the SEND Tribunal. The timeline is strict - don't let South Tyneside exceed their 4-week deadline.

Challenging an inadequate review

If South Tyneside fails to hold an annual review, fails to consult you properly, ignores your evidence, or proposes amendments that don't meet your child's needs, you can challenge this. Write to the local authority explaining why the review was inadequate and what changes you need. Reference Regulation 18 of the SEND Regulations 2014. If they don't respond satisfactorily, you can appeal to the SEND Tribunal or complain to the Local Government Ombudsman.