The Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) process, a crucial framework designed to support children with special educational needs, is currently facing a significant challenge.
Acknowledged by both the Department of Education and the Children's Commissioner, the system's inefficiencies have reached a point where a radical overhaul is not just desired but urgently needed. Frustrations among parent groups, teacher associations, and an escalating number of cases highlighted in mainstream media have collectively signaled a crisis—one that demands an innovative solution.
Amidst growing demands, last year's figures were telling: of the 66,000 cases filed, only half were completed within the statutory 6-month timeframe. It's a stark revelation of a system under strain, where the need for change has never been more apparent.
In partnership with Outcomes Matter Consulting, our mission was clear: to deliver a radical, results-focused solution that not only addresses the current challenges but paves the way for a future where the EHCP process is streamlined, efficient, and above all, effective.
The cornerstone of our approach was the integration of generative AI technology, a decision driven by the need to drastically reduce the time spent drafting initial EHCP documents for review by the professionals. Historically, creating a first draft of an EHCP could take anywhere from 6 to 16 hours—a significant investment of time that detracts from the SEN caseworkers' ability to focus on their core mission of supporting children.
Through the very specific and focussed application of generative AI, we've managed to reduce the drafting process to just one hour, much of which is spent on reviewing, reading and ensuring that the voice of the child or young person is well heard.
This breakthrough means that SEN caseworkers can now dedicate more time to what truly matters: visiting schools, working directly with children, and providing the tailored support that can make a real difference in their educational journey.
Together, we've embarked on a journey to fix the EHCP problem, not just with a vision but with a viable, scalable solution that has already begun to transform the landscape.
For more information and to see how you can be part of this transformative initiative, visit EHCP Plus today.
