Bristol Send Campaign Group Calls Out EHCP Waits

The average wait in Bristol for an EHCP is 42 weeks

A Bristol Send campaign group is calling for ‘honesty, accountability, and action’ this week after new data revealed more than 1,300 children are waiting many months for an EHCP.

Bristol Send Justice responded to details released in papers for this month’s Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee.

The current EHCP timeliness in Bristol is at just 05 per cent.

Bristol Send Justice Said: “Bristol’s EHCP Crisis: Fewer Plans. Longer Waits. No Accountability.

“Bristol City Council has fewer EHCPs than the national average — and even admits that requests for EHCP needs assessments are also below the national average.

“Yet for years they’ve blamed “unprecedented demand” and “significant increases” for the crisis in SEND support.

“The reality?

“More than 1,300 children are stuck waiting — many over a year — just for an EHCP needs assessment.

“Who decided to grow the waiting list?

“How does a council with fewer EHCPs and fewer requests end up with a 52-week backlog?

“And before anyone mentions the so-called £1 million Early Intervention Fund, let’s be honest:

“Last year it paid out under £3,000 total, split between just three students.

“Families don’t need excuses.

“They need honesty, accountability, and action.”

The council committee – with responsibility for education and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities – meets on 16 October 2025.

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