Local Offer: A Quick Guide to EHC Plans and Higher Education - WNC

“Securing a place in Higher Education is a positive outcome for many young people with special educational needs. Where a young person has this ambition, the right level of provision and support should be provided to help them to achieve that goal, wherever possible.” (Special Educational Needs and Disability Code of Practice: 0 to 25 Years)

Young people who have an Education, Health, and Care (EHC) Plan should be aware that it will cease when they enter university or any other higher education (HE) setting. The local authority will share the EHC Plan with the university on request. They must also share the EHC Plan with a Disabled Student Allowance (DSA) assessor if asked, and if the young person agrees. 

Any social care support that is needed can be planned before moving away from home. Under the Care Act 2014, young people have the right to request transition assessments for adult social care services once they turn 18. Local authorities should use these assessments to plan support that will be provided while the young person is in higher education.

HE providers (usually universities) will have arrangements in place for students with additional needs. It’s important for young people to make themselves (and their needs) known to the university’s disability officer, the accommodation, and the course-provider as early as possible.

• Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA)
• Ask Jules
• UCAS Disability Guidance 
• Disability Rights UK, Education Factsheets and Guides 
• Student Health Association Assistance Fund